Exeter Holiday Fundraiser Gets Huge Boost from Arjay's Owner

Over the last 15 years, the annual Festival of Trees event has raised over $250,000 for a local children's fund.

One of the fundraiser's biggest proponents is Dan Jackson, owner of Arjay Ace Hardware on Lincoln Street.

The Festival of Trees will happen Thur., Dec. 5 at Town Hall. Decorated trees will be auctioned off, and proceeds will benefit an Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce fund, which provides warm winter clothing vouchers to local children in need.

Jackson started supplying tree stands for the event and now sponsors all 52 trees that will be auctioned off this year.

“It breaks my heart to see kids going without  the basic necessities needed in life," Jackson said. "I’m involved with the chamber children’s fund to do my small part to help these kids get what they need."