For many, going to the tree farm and picking out that perfect one means the official start of the holiday season, a time to spend with friends, and family. But for those families with active service members, being separated during the holidays puts a damper on the season spirit. That's where "Trees for Troops" comes in, a program that donates Christmas trees to military and their family.
"Trees for Troops" is a national drive run by the Christmas Spirit Foundation. Anyone can go to a participating tree farm, or the organization's website, to donate to the cause. Dick Darling, the New York chairman for "Trees for Troops", says for those who want to help our military, this is an easy way.
"Every person would like to help the soldiers, but they really don't know how. And this is a nice way to contribute."
Robert Brown is the owner of Brown's Three B Tree Nursery. This is his fourth year donating trees to the program. For him, the decision to help was easy.
"We appreciate what they're doing for us and this is just a way for us to give back. Help them, and their families. It's just something we do. Christmas is the time for giving."
To donate online, just visit the "Trees for Troops" website, which is linked below.
Area tree farms participating in "Trees for Troops" include:
Beckwith Tree Farms in Hannibal
Moore Tree Farm in Groton
Henderberg's Tree Farm in Rome