Special Olympics BC-Powell River’s charity Christmas Tree Mulch will take place on Sunday, January 8, from 10 am to 1 pm, with proceeds supporting the local organization.
The annual event is the primary fundraiser each year for the organization, according to volunteer board member Cathy Fisher.
For a suggested minimum $5 donation, qathet region residents can bring their trees for disposal to the parking lot just below Mother Nature at 7050 Duncan Street.
“For those who prefer a curbside pickup, a tag can be purchased at 7-Eleven, Top Shelf Feeds or Mother Nature,” says Fisher. “Tags can be purchased until the end of the day on Saturday, January 7.”
Those opting for pickup should have their tree tagged and easily visible at the curb before 8 am on January 8.
Anyone making a donation of $20 or more will be issued a tax receipt. They just need to include their address and phone number.
Formed in 1991, the local chapter of Special Olympics provides sports programs for aquatics, bocce, bowling, curling, floor hockey and golf, as well as a general fitness program for athletes. The region has about 50 athletes in the Special Olympics programs, ranging in age from 10 to 80.
“We’re back in full swing. Our bowling started, and some floor hockey players are going over to Comox,” explains Fisher. “We’ve started curling, swimming, and a new program called Club Fit. In the spring, we’re looking forward to bocce and softball.”
All funds raised at the tree mulch will stay in the area to support local athletes, funding their equipment, travel and other competition costs.
Fisher wants to give a big thank-you to City of Powell River CUPE 798 members for volunteering their time to collect the trees.
“It’s a really good partnership,” adds Fisher. “We certainly appreciate all that help from them.”
Mulch is also available for purchase on-site by donation to Special Olympics BC-Powell River. Anyone wishing to make arrangements to purchase a large quantity of mulch is asked to email [email protected], or stop by on January 8 between 10 am and 1 pm.
People who have artificial Christmas trees can still donate to the cause. Cash donations will be collected during the charity Christmas Tree Mulch, and prior to that day, donation boxes will be at the tag purchase locations.
In addition to the tree mulch, there is an ongoing bottle drive. Bottles can be dropped off at 4565 Manson Avenue. There is a sign showing where to leave the donations and then volunteers take care of the rest.
“We try to cover all the expenses so our athletes, who are often on a fixed income, can participate,” explains local Special Olympics co-coordinator Jackie Milsom. “Our fundraising pays for all costs associated with the weekly programs, which is our main expense. “
Also, later in the day on January 8, everyone is welcome to check out the Comox Valley Vipers, whose roster includes local players, face off against the BC Hockey League’s Powell River Kings in a floor hockey game at Brooks Secondary School, which starts at 2 pm. Donations collected at the door will be given to Special Olympics BC-Powell River.
