Giving Tree takes different school shape

The COVID-19 restrictions may have changed Farragut Schools’ Giving Tree model this year, but the result should be even easier on donors.

Instead of offering Giving trees at each school with gift tags that supporters would select then shop for gifts — which volunteers would wrap — organizers this year are focusing on gift cards or monetary donations.

“We’ve made significant changes to our model due to COVID protocols at the schools, but we are so grateful to still offer Giving Tree this year,” said LeighAnna Colgrove, Project Giving Tree co-chair. “We are focusing our efforts on a gift-card drive instead of a traditional shopping tag distributor and gift collections.”

The group set a goal of collecting 500 gift cards, with a suggested value of $25 each, to local stores including Marshall’s, Kohl’s and Old Navy, “but gift cards of any denomination and to other local stores are all appreciated,” Project Giving Tree’s flyer stated.

Donations currently are being accepted through Friday, Dec. 4. “We currently have more than 80 families and 200-plus children enrolled this year, and expect a few more families may be added in the coming weeks,” Colgrove said.

Donation process

Parents or others wishing to donate may send purchased gift cards with their students attending any of the Farragut schools, which will be turned in to the homeroom teachers.

Those wishing to donate online may do so via Venmo@FISPTA or at givebutter.com/FarragutGivingTree.

For more information, e-mail farragutgivingtree@gmail.com.