"Tree"mendous Holiday Celebration Organized By 2 Enfield Non-Profits

ENFIELD, CT — For the sixth consecutive year, a collaboration between the Woman's Club of Enfield and the Enfield Food Shelf promises to deliver holiday joy to dozens of area families with the annual "Tree"mendous Holiday Celebration.

The two organizations, assisted by members of the Enfield Transitional Learning Academy, have set up and decorated space inside the Enfield Square shopping mall to display holiday trees and wreaths, all of which have been donated by local businesses, agencies and residents.

This year's setup is in the former T-Mobile location, across the corridor from the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce office. The chamber is among the area organizations donating a tree.

Raffle tickets will be available for a chance to win one of about 30 trees, of all sizes and types of decor, as well as about 20 wreaths. There is no obligation to buy tickets, however; "people can come in and see the beautiful decorations, take pictures and just enjoy the holiday spirit," said Kathy Souvigney, executive director of the food shelf.

The celebration begins on Black Friday, Nov. 24, and runs through Sunday, Dec. 10. On that date at 5 p.m., all winners will be drawn for the trees, wreaths and a 50/50 raffle. The space will be open Fridays from 3-7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 pm., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"We're trying to encourage community involvement, to come here as a family and enjoy the season," Diane Derose of the Woman's Club said.

Both non-profit groups have a long history of service to Enfield and surrounding towns. The Woman's Club chapter was formed in 1898, and annually supports community events and awards four scholarships to graduating high school seniors. The Enfield Food Shelf was organized in 1968, and since its inception, volunteers have collected, prepared, and distributed food to thousands of needy families.

Donations of trees and wreaths, as well as sponsors and prize donors, are still encouraged. They may be delivered to the site beginning Nov. 4. More information may be found here.