Operation Christmas Tree (Canada)

Operation Christmas Tree is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing assistance to less fortunate families in St. Clair Township Ward 1. Established in 1985, the organization focuses on delivering holiday support through donations of toys, food, and grocery gift cards during the Christmas season.

History

Operation Christmas Tree began as part of the Yule Glow Program in 1985, initiated by Ken Lavoie, then Corunna Postmaster. Initially, the program assisted about 17 families through an informal collective effort involving the Corunna, Courtright, Brigden, and Mooretown Post Offices. Recognizing the need for a more structured approach, an eight-member board was formed, comprising representatives from local churches, schools, service clubs, and youth groups.

In 1989, the program became officially affiliated with the Optimist Club of Moore and was registered as a charitable organization. Since then, it has evolved into a prominent community event supported by various charitable organizations, local businesses, churches, schools, and individual donors throughout St. Clair Township. The charity continues to serve families in the Moore portion of St. Clair Township (Ward 1).

Mission and Activities

The organization’s core mission is to assist low-income families by purchasing, collecting, sorting, storing, and distributing toys year-round. Furthermore, it donates food to food banks and occasionally provides small cash donations to support families during Christmas. Gifts such as toys and grocery gift cards are distributed to children and families to help brighten their holiday season.

Governance

Operation Christmas Tree is overseen by a Board of Directors and supported by committee members. Key leadership includes:

• President: Stan Marsh
• Vice President: Paul Mitchell
• Treasurer/Secretary: Davida Nimmo

Other board members include Ken Nimmo, Dan Van Nice, and Ross Helps, with committee members such as Melissa Atyeo and Mary Lou Abrams contributing to the organization’s operations.

Community Impact

Operation Christmas Tree has become a valued charity within St. Clair Township, known for its collaborative efforts with local churches, schools, and service groups. It provides tangible relief and joy to families experiencing economic hardship during the holiday season, maintaining a strong presence in the community for over three decades.

Note: This article pertains specifically to the Canadian nonprofit Operation Christmas Tree based in St. Clair Township, Ontario, registered under business number 889781670RR0001. It is distinct from other organizations with similar names operating elsewhere.[1][2][3]

[1] https://www.operationchristmastree.ca/who-we-are/ [2] https://my.charitableimpact.com/charities/operation-christmas-tree [3] https://www.charitydata.ca/charity/operation-christmas-tree-inc/892630567RR0001/ [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/operation-christmas-tree/impact/view/ [5] https://operationchristmastree.org