We all love the tree lights that the St. Johns Boosters install and update annually. During the dark days of winter they beautify our downtown business district, improve pedestrian safety, and encourage shopping and dining at local businesses.
That holiday glow extends into the spring until the trees start leafing out. These lights we all love, however, need funding.
Ace Hardware donated 175 strands this year to replace light strands that had burned out. Some business owners also donate to cover the cost of lighting the trees in front of their store or restaurant. Still, the cost is up to $5,000 each year for the permit, installation, and lift rental.
After a good start in this year’s fund raising, we are coming up short. As of December 13th, the community has donated $2354 toward the $5,000 needed:
- Ace Hardware’s “round up” campaign brought in $571 in November.
- Metamorphic’s sock sale, with the proceeds going to the Brighten Up St. Johns campaign and St. Johns’ Food Share, brought in $250.
- Donations into the GoFundMe campaign are at $810.
- Donations into cans left at local merchants are at $723 at last count.
Please donate through the GoFundMe Brighten Up St. Johns campaign or by giving when shopping at local merchants. Donation cans are set near the cash registers at about 40 local businesses.
It’s the generosity of our community that keeps the lights going each year. Let’s keep this St. Johns tradition alive.
