MARQUETTE – The United Way of Marquette County and Yoopers United are partnering with Northern Michigan University students to bring holiday joy to local youth in need. There are six Giving Trees around Marquette: at the Marquette Township Office, Kate’s Place Salon, Provisions, Contrast Coffee and The Crib–with gift tags for community members to select from and help bring joy to low-income youth in need.

What is a “Giving Tree”?

A Giving Tree is a Christmas tree decorated with ornaments or gift tags to be taken by community members who are able and willing to make a difference during the holiday season. The tags contain parts of Christmas wish lists, typically coming from children of low-income families. In this case, the kids who will be impacted live in Lake Superior Village.

“It’s hard to think about some families going without a Christmas, especially when there are so many who are able to enjoy it every year,” said Tina. “The Giving Tree is our chance to come together and give the gifts local kids have been wanting and needing for years–ones they will remember for the rest of their lives.”

How does it work?

Individuals who wish to participate in contributing to the Giving Tree can take a gift tag from the tree, purchase the item(s) on it, and return it with the tag to the same location.

When do gifts need to be returned?
They need to be returned by December 15th! What else should I make note of?

Some of the kids receiving these gifts have disabilities or sensory sensitivities that make it difficult for them to open wrapped gifts. Therefore, please do not wrap the items you are gifting. We apologize for any joy this may take away; however, Lake Superior Village will be handling the packaging for these families.