Let the giving begin!

The Giving Tree is now on display at the Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter office.

For more than a quarter of a century the Giving Tree, a collaboration between the Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter and Clear Lake Community School District, has helped to make the holidays a little brighter for Clear Lake families. 

Forms to sign up for the 2021 Giving Tree were distributed at Clear Lake Schools, Lake Town Charlie Brown and Head Start in Clear Lake.  Those interested in purchasing gifts or food cards for the Giving Tree may choose ornaments at the Mirror-Reporter office at 12 N. 4th St. between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday beginning today (Wednesday, Nov. 17).  

Wrapped gifts and food cards must be turned in to the Mirror-Reporter no later than noon Wednesday, Dec. 15.  Families are then notified when gifts are ready for pick up.

Those choosing not to shop this holiday season might consider making a financial donation to the Giving Tree and the funds will be used to fulfill the Christmas needs of local families.  Again this year, thanks to Share Life, donations of cash and food cards for Giving Tree families are tax-deductible.

Questions regarding sign-up for the Giving Tree should be directed to Sara Puttmann at Clear Lake Schools, 641-357-5288.  Those with questions about purchasing gifts or food for families, or wishing to make a donation which will be dedicated to the Giving Tree, should contact Marianne Gasaway at the Clear Lake Mirror-Reporter, 357-2131. To make a tax-deductible donation to this year’s Giving Tree, make checks payable to Share Life with “Giving Tree” noted in the memo. Donations can be dropped off at the Mirror-Reporter office.

Last year, The Giving Tree provided food to 195 people and 132 children received gifts.  The community rose to the challenge and all requests for gifts of clothing and food were filled.