First Congregational Church Of Greenwich Announces Record Gift Total From Annual Christmas Tree Sale

GREENWICH, CT — The First Congregational Church of Greenwich hosted its annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale gift awards celebration on Sunday, Feb. 22, announcing the largest gift total in the 59-year history of the sale.

Seven local nonprofit organizations serving children and families in Greenwich and Stamford received gifts totaling $60,014 from proceeds of the annual sale.

Gifts of $7,500 were awarded to the Greenwich Alliance for Education, Mothers for Others, Pacific House Young Adults Program, The Undies Project, Greenwich United Way, and the YWCA Harmony Project. In addition, proceeds from the sale will fully fund a monthly hot meal at the New Covenant Center for one year and will support Call-A-Ride.

Since the Christmas Tree Sale began in 1966, proceeds distributed through the program have totaled an estimated $943,354, the church said in a news release.

The Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale has been held annually since its launch and has grown into a community event supported by volunteers of all ages, including church members, representatives from beneficiary organizations and students from Greenwich public and independent schools. Pam Speer, co-chair of the sale, recognized more than 100 local volunteers who contributed a combined 282 volunteer hours.

"First Church is grateful and proud of the support and generosity of our shoppers and volunteers. We are honored to in turn support these wonderful agencies who are working hard in our community to help children and families most in need," added Co-Chair Kate Collin.