Brotherhood Tree ends after 49 years of serving the community

Posted on December 5, 2017

 

Brotherhood Tree has been a community tradition in McLean County since 1969.

 

By Sean Copeland

The WJBC Brotherhood Tree started its seasonal gift giving event helping just seven families in need in 1969… now reaching its 49th year serving hundreds of families in need in McLean County.

However, the Brotherhood Tree event due to increases in people under the poverty line have increased demand for gifts, especially this year for kids ages six through 12 years old.

Market Manager of WJBC Paula Williams says how amazing it is to see the gifts produced, emphasizing it’s impact on the community.

“It’s fascinating, and to see all the gifts and the bags lined up for delivery is amazing. That we can all come together each year and provide over 4,000 people with gifts that may not have anything for this holiday season,” said Williams.

The Brotherhood Tree encourages those who donate to donate only toys for these children in need. The gifts will be distributed on Saturday, December 16th.

This will be the last year of the Brotherhood Tree’s involvement with the community, due to various other organizations who have developed their own donation raising efforts in McLean County.

Sean Copeland can be reached at [email protected].

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