Georgia Southern University’s beloved Holiday Helper Tree tradition returns for its 31st year, marking over three decades of fulfilling holiday wishes for vulnerable populations in Bulloch and Chatham counties.
Since its inception in 1994, the program has offered students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members an opportunity to give back to those in need, providing essentials and special gifts during the holiday season.
"The Holiday Helper Tree began in 1994,” said Eileen Sconyers Smith, co-founder and retired director of the program. “It started off small and slow, but it gained speed over the years as we were able to help more people. It has grown tremendously, now with about 650 to 700 tags on the tree. Georgia Southern has always embraced the spirit of giving, and we’re proud of Eagle Nation for continuing this tradition.”
This year, the program will continue with its virtual format, allowing supporters to participate from anywhere between Nov. 4 and Dec. 6. Supporters can pull tags from the tree online and have the option to ship gifts directly to recipients.
Additionally, each physical tag on campus trees includes a QR code that links to the virtual tree, making it easier for more people to contribute.
Emily Tanner, Georgia Southern University’s Community Engagement Coordinator in the Office of Leadership and Community Engagement (OLCE), emphasized the impact of the program, saying, “The Holiday Helper Tree each year gives our campus community an opportunity to step up and meet the needs of individuals. There’s over 650 tags on the tree this year, and each tag represents a person and a need they have. This tree allows us to meet those needs, address those situations, and truly make a difference.”
Each year, approximately 800 individuals from over 20 community organizations benefit from the support provided by the Holiday Helper Tree.
For more information on the Holiday Helper Tree and how you can participate, visit Georgia Southern’s Office of Leadership and Community Engagement’s website here.