‘Spirit of holiday giving’: Leeds and Grenville Interval House to host second annual Festival of Trees

Everyone deserves to feel loved and valued during the holiday season.

In the spirit of giving, The Leeds and Grenville Interval House (LGIH)  is once again hosting its Festival of Trees event to help raise funds for providing basic needs to local women and children.

The LGIH provides shelter and support services for women and children fleeing emotionally and physically abusive situations. The organization runs primarily off of funding from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. 

Executive Director Melissa Leveck explained, “It does not cover all of our costs so obtaining additional funding through grants and fundraising is extremely important. Without support from local businesses and community members, we would not be able to provide the services that we do.” 

Last year, 11 decorated trees were donated for the fundraiser, but Leveck is anticipating anywhere from 15-20 trees this year. The trees are donated by both local companies and individuals within the community.

Leveck told Brockvilleist, “The money raised from this fundraiser will go directly to the clients we serve. While staying in our emergency shelter, all of the clients’ basic needs are covered. Funds raised will be used to ensure that we are able to provide these basic needs while supporting women and children to heal.”

Leveck wants to remind those in the community that while the holidays are a wonderful time, they can also be a very tough time for women and children who have experienced abuse.

“At LGIH, we want to bring some holiday magic to our clients as well as the community. If community members can attend a fun holiday event knowing that they are also helping those in need locally during this holiday season, they are participating in the spirit of holiday giving which can make the holidays that much more magical.”

The expertly decorated trees will be available for viewing from Nov. 29 at 4 p.m. to Dec. 1 at 12 p.m. at the Leeds & Grenville Interval House in Brockville. Raffle tickets will be available for purchase to give you a chance to win your favourite tree.