Generosity is apparent in Galva as it prepares to make the holidays warmer and happier for its residents.
The Xi Kappa Gamma Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority has put up their Love Trees in three locations this year – The Galva Banking Center (Toulon State Bank), The Community State Bank, and The Galva Senior Citizens.
For over three decades, the group has covered the trees with special ornaments, each noting what an area child hopes to get for Christmas. Clothes, toys, and toiletries are the most popular requests for the over 70 youngsters who will find their wishes come true on Christmas morning.
Member Vicki Perkins explains that Galva School teachers submit names of children ages newborn to 15 who would benefit from the gifts in early November.
Those who choose an ornament (no minimum) are asked to return the items listed on them to Galva’s City Hall on Thursday, Dec. 5, and Friday, Dec. 6 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The sorority members ask that the gifts be delivered unwrapped. The group also appreciates cash donations to help purchase items listed on any ornaments that aren’t chosen.
Those receiving the gifts can pick them up a week later, on Dec. 12 and 13 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Dec. 14 from 8 to 11 am.
According to Perkins, the sorority is aided by others. Gifts of blankets and pillows are provided by The Linus Project, hats and gloves by the community, and the local Girl Scout Troop collects toys for the children.
“It takes a village,” says Perkins. “And it makes such a difference in the children’s lives.”
