More Than Festive Foliage

By Anna Sites

The Christmas tree has been a beloved holiday tradition in America since the mid-1800‘s. That yuletide symbol of celebration, bedecked in sparkling ornaments and lights. But scattered around our town you’ll find a few Tannenbaums with slightly different decorations.

Our area is full of senior citizens that would be more than grateful for a little something to open on Christmas morning. That’s why Home Instead, an international assisted living program (and the group behind those “40/70 rule“ commercials), has placed Secret Santa trees in several locations in and around Beaumont. The long list of locations includes CVS on Phelan, Walgreens & HEB on Dowlen and Sam’s Club. Pick an ornament from the tree, pick up an item while you shop, take it home to wrap and return it to the store. That’s all it takes to Be A Santa To A Senior.

For a full list of locations or to read more about this wonderful program, visit www.beasantatoasenior.com

There are also many furry friends who wish they had a home for Christmas. To help them until they get their wish, the Humane Society of Southeast Texas has placed Angel Trees in the front of Petsmart as well as their own lobby and all nearby Market Baskets. Decorated with handmade paper ornaments including the name and needs of a deserving dog, cat or other pet at the shelter, it’s a fun and easy way to do some good. A $5 bag of food, a toy or two, put them in a bag and drop them under the tree. Easy as dog biscuits.

To find out other ways to help or to add a new member to your family, stop by the Humane Society, call (409) 833-0504 or visit www.petsforpeople.org.

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