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Tamaqua Giving Tree underway

The holiday season will be wrapped in warmth for some in Tamaqua, thanks to the spirit of giving.

The Fourth Annual Giving Tree was stocked on Sunday night following the community’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Safer Streets volunteers take it upon themselves to stock the community Christmas tree with hats, scarves, gloves, mittens, socks and slippers.

The items are for anyone who needs them. They’re placed in watertight plastic bags and the contents are clearly marked.

The project is sponsored by Safer Streets for Tamaqua’s Little Feet. Safer Streets is a nonprofit dedicating to fighting addiction and directing assistance and awareness campaigns.

The organization was founded by John and Tammy Sienkiewicz after the 2016 overdose death of their 23-year-old daughter Alexandria.

To keep the tree freshly stocked, volunteers regularly collect donations from the community. Donation boxes are found at local businesses and organizations.

If a donated item is too large for the tree, such as a sweater or coat, it’ll be held at the Tamaqua Salvation Army.

Interestingly, some of the strongest supporters for the program are recovering addicts.

This year, the Sienkiewiczes and other volunteers found themselves at the receiving end of warmth and generosity while stocking the tree on a very cold night. A local restaurant showed up with hot chocolate.

Tammy said the gesture meant a great deal.

The Fourth Annual The Giving Tree sponsored by Safer Streets for Tamaqua’s Little Feet kicked off Sunday following the Tamaqua Spirit of Christmas Tree Lighting. Here, Vicki Martin of Tamaqua hangs mittens, scarves and other items of warmth. DONALD R. SERFASS/SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS