FARMINGTON – The University of Maine at Farmington is teaming up with the Franklin County Children’s Task Force for its 11th annual Giving Tree tradition.
The tree, which is housed at the University Store and largely organized by employee Lois King, is decorated with close to 100 glittering paper angels, each declaring an item from a local family’s wish list.
“It’s a very tangible way to connect with the community. We can do more as a group than we can individually,” Ron Milliken said.
Milliken, who works in the financial aid office at UMF’s Merrill Center, is one of a 10-person staff all working to complete a family’s entire list. The Merrill Center has taken on this project for five years now, choosing a family from the Giving Tree and acquiring the wish list from King.
“We always did an office present exchange, but we never knew what to get each other. So instead we decided to do something charitable for the community,” said Jennifer Hutchinson, also of the financial aid department. “We really enjoy it now. We start to get very emotionally attached to the family.”
The exchange is a completely anonymous one, with presents being dropped off at the University Bookstore and picked up by the families at the FCCTF. Although the Giving Tree is mostly visited by UMF staff and students who are looking to give back during the holidays, it is open to the entire community.
King reports seeing a change in the things people are requesting. From video games and iPads to more practical things like shoes and clothing.
“There’s a real need for the necessities,” she said.
The number of families in need has gone up too. Last year the miniature tree held angels for 16 families. This year it’s up to 27 families and nearly totaling 100 individuals.
“Doing this gives us the opportunity to help provide what is needed in our community, but it also let’s do a little something extra,” Hutchinson said.
Anyone interested in adopting a family, or donating presents to individuals, can stop by the University Store and choose a wish list item off of the Giving Tree. Gifts are requested to be turned in by Dec. 16.
