Tree It Forward program comes to Agawam

Nov. 14, 2018 | Stephanie Trombley
stephanie@thereminder.com

AGAWAM – The pivotal holiday decoration for those who celebrate Christmas is the tree. Decorating one each year can create lasting memories and heartfelt joy. Unfortunately, not all families can afford to purchase one. Jennifer Gagne, a local resident, is seeking to change that with the Tree It Forward program.

Tree It Forward is a collection of Christmas trees to donate to families in need. This year, Gagne has expanded donation requests to include gently used ornaments and decorations.

As Gagne explained, “The Tree It Forward program is a great way to give back. It’s an opportunity for families in need to be able to enjoy the holiday without worrying about money they don’t have for a Christmas tree. It’s also an amazing way for everyone to show support to our fellow neighbors, families and friends.”

The cause is close to Gagne’s heart. “I was compelled to start this because I’ve lived it. I also see it every day in the community. If only one tree gets donated, that’s one family who can smile Christmas morning.”

Gagne understands what it feels like to struggle to make ends meet. “I was a very young mom. I had my first child at sixteen. I worked very hard at a minimum wage job to pay bills and daycare and try to feed my family every week. During the holidays, instead of enjoying them, I absolutely dreaded them. I would often have to make the choice if I would buy a tree or buy a couple extra small gifts.”

Wanting to help families in similar circumstances, Gagne has collected donations for the past two years. “I made a promise to myself. If at any point I was able to help, I would. I remember how it felt to have to make those choices every year and last year was my first year I could comfortably do just that.”

With several programs available for coat and toy donations in the wintertime, Gagne felt that there was a gap for those in need of decorations. “There are plenty of programs out there for toys and coats and even food. But it’s often based on your income. Unfortunately, life happens all too often and the income guidelines they use to qualify you don’t take into consideration childcare, illness, or unexpected car repairs. On paper, families often don’t qualify for these programs.”

After seeing a post Gagne made on an Agawam forum on Facebook, a social worker reached out to her and asked for her help in sponsoring a family. The family picked up an artificial Christmas tree and decorations from Gagne’s home, and she welcomed the family inside to be guests at her annual Christmas party. Other members of the Agawam forum also donated gifts to the family. “They would have a complete Christmas morning with a tree that was decorated and gifts under it. We made lifelong friends and amazing holiday memories. My children also learned valuable lessons of kindness and giving as well.”

Gagne feels it is important to get involved this holiday season and bring the community together to help out one another. “I’ve lived through hard times. The holidays should be about making memories, helping others and spending time with loved ones. One hundred percent of proceeds go toward Tree It Forward, and we appreciate support in making a difference.”

Kelly’s Home and Garden in Westfield are participating in Tree It Forward this year by offering a discount on donation trees with the purchase of a full price tree. Gagne also has a donation page on Facebook that can be found by searching “tree it forward.” Participants are also welcome to contact Gagne via her personal Facebook page or email, jjcds19751@gmail.com.

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