Angel Tree 2024 Officially Launches with Avonlea Homes
The message of Angel Tree is that we are never alone. We are with you when the night is darkest, and the weight in your heart is heaviest. We are here. We will guide your hope to flourish.
Lethbridge Family Services officially launched the 32nd annual Angel Tree Christmas Campaign on Friday, November 15, 2024, alongside our Presenting sponsor, Avonlea Homes, who announced this year’s incredible gift to the campaign. An event with media representatives and special guests was held at the beautiful Avonlea Homes show home in Blackwolf, Lethbridge. Ron Tyslau from Avonlea Homes, who leads the company’s efforts, presented Angel Tree with a cheque for an unbelievable $30,152, raised in collaboration with their industry partners.
As stories of anonymous Angel Tree recipients were shared, there were more than a few tears amongst those in attendance. Sandra Mintz, CEO of Lethbridge Family Services, explains, “Angel Tree is powered by the love and generosity of our community. In 2023, we served a record of 4,253 children, ranging from 0 to 18 years of age. This wouldn't have been possible without the help of 527 volunteers who work tirelessly, 6 days a week, to bring the campaign to life”.
Ron Tyslau, Avonlea Homes Customer Experience Manager, presents the cheque to Michelle Gallucci, LFS Director of Advancement & Communications.
Ann Zalik, 2024 Angel Tree Campaign Chair.
Each gift bundle is carefully packed for every child with:
Something on their wish list
Something inspirational to fuel their imaginations
Something educational to nourish their minds
Something warm, cuddly, and soft
As of mid-November, 1,427 gift bundles are complete, with an estimated 3,000 more to go. The Angel Tree Toy Depot is buzzing with energy while our gift bundlers carefully and diligently assemble gift bundles from the wishlists of children in our community. It’s hard, emotional work that brings back memories of childhood dreams and pulls at your heartstrings at every turn. Meanwhile, our volunteer gift delivery drivers bring joy directly to the doorsteps of those recipients who are unable to pick up their bundles at the toy depot.
Ann Zalik, 2024 Angel Tree Campaign Chair says, "Every gift we give Angel Tree children is more than just an item; it’s a symbol of hope, a reminder that even in times of challenge, we are not alone. This is a season where we can give the best of ourselves for the best of them—because in the end, we are all a part of the same community, and together, we can make the world a little bit brighter”.
Angel Tree relies on the strength of our community and the generosity of compassionate hearts to create real miracles for kids in need. This year, we face another big challenge, with over 4,000 babies, children, and youth to support. The fundraising goal to fulfill this many gift bundles is $190,000, with the current total close to $70,000 as of mid-November. Help is more crucial than ever. If you are able to contribute to this crucial community campaign, with funds, toys, or volunteer time, know that your generosity will make a lasting difference in our community.
To donate, please visit our Angel Tree donation page, and to volunteer, please see our volunteer sign-up schedule.
Ron Tyslau addresses those in attendance, including Avonlea Homes trade partners.
This year, Angel Tree printed new, inclusive angel tags, courtesy of our long-time print supporter, Paramount Printers Ltd.
Avonlea Homes trade partners include Associated Engineering, The Kitchen Centre, Camco Fencing & Lawns, Logic Lumber, Durabuilt Windows & Doors, Builder's Channel, Sunny South Insulators, FloorRight Interiors, and Dwayne Feyter Construction.
Lethbridge Family Services provides highly-accredited health and social services to over 9,000 individuals and families in more than 30 communities in southwestern Alberta, through the professional services of more than 380 staff, and the support of over 550 committed volunteers. LFS's vision is a connected and inclusive community where people thrive.
Media Contact:
Michelle Gallucci
Director, Advancement & Communications
Lethbridge Family Services
MGallucci@LFSfamily.ca
403-915-8028
