Nov. 19 deadline set for Dream Tree applications in Rusk

RUSK – A Nov. 19 deadline has been set to return applications for this year’s Dream Tree Program in Rusk, which provides Christmas gifts to Rusk’s younger children.

Applications are available from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at Rusk Church of Christ, 397 S. Main St.; Rusk First Baptist Church, 372 E. 4th St., from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday; and at Rusk’s public library, 207 E. 6th St., from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Applications also may be returned there.

The program, which director Lezlie Carvell said has been in place for more than a decade, is a popular one with families and sponsors alike.

“We have a lot of donors who provide help just for Dream Tree – we’ve even had one person ask that donations be given to the program instead of flowers when they died,” she said. “It’s kind of a big thing for some people.”

The program is open to children from birth through eighth grade; their families provide basic information, such as name, age, gender, clothing/shoe sizes, grade level and requested gifts. Families also provide verification – a driver’s license, proof of income, utility/rent receipts, proof of unexpected or emergency expenses and information about each child in families’ care, and whether they are enrolled or live in Rusk ISD.

“All we ask is that they meet requirements, that’s all,” she said.

A child’s information is written on a tag that is placed on trees set up at local banks, and sponsors purchase the items requested.

For those who would rather donate to the program itself, all they need to do is specify that the money is for the Dream Tree, Carvell said.

The program not only fulfills kids’ Christmas requests, but also “gives us a sense of community at Christmas time,” she said. “The children need that something a little special for each of them, and if people can help, these children are recognized, and it makes them feel good.”

According to volunteer Pat Hardy, the program serves approximately 50 families – or about 145 children – annually.

To learn more about the holiday Dream Tree program, email director@thetreeofpromise.com or visit Tree of Promise page on Facebook.