Penny Wilson of the Galva Pharmacy, left, and Vickie Perkins of Xi Kappa sorority check out the few remaining ornaments on the Love Tree. [Photo by Diana Whitney]

For over thirty years, the Xi Kappa chapter of Galva’s Beta Sigma Phi sorority has been providing gifts for local children via their Love Tree Project. Early in November, Galva parents and teachers are asked to submit the names of children from newborn to fifteen that would enjoy a gift at Christmas time.

Ornaments with the child’s age, sizes and special requests are displayed for area residents to select. Those choosing an ornament agree to purchase items listed and return them, unwrapped, to city hall, where Xi Kappa members bag and deliver the gifts.

According to Vickie Perkins, chapter vice-president, the gifts allow the sorority to provide things such as warm clothing, toiletries and toys to over 70 children each year. Perkins said that it is one of the most popular and fulfilling programs that the group arranges. Assisting her are committee members, Carolyn Cromein and Judy Anderson, who help spearhead the project.

We have been so fortunate to have the Galva Pharmacy display the tree for us, said Perkins. Scott Caravello and his staff are big fans of the project, she said, and having the spot so convenient for everyone has really added to the Love Tree’s continued success.

Perkins said that in recent years, other organizations have joined in and helped provide items for the project. During Galva’s Ol’ Fashioned Christmas, the Girl Scouts collected toys for the Love Tree and others donated money towards the purchase of gifts. In addition, Perkins’ connection to the nationwide “Linus Project” allows them to add a handmade blanket to each child’s gift.

Perkins applauds the community for their generosity, saying that it’s rare to have any ornaments left when the project ends. Galva is full of caring people, she said, adding that such generosity makes Christmas possible for many area children.

Xi Kappa is one of two Beta Sigma Phi chapters in Galva. Along with its sister chapter, Lambda Nu, it supports the community with two high school scholarships, as well as donations to other local organizations. Giving back to the town is important to us said Perkins, and she is proud to be part of the Love Tree project