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   The holidays are a season of magic, joy, and love — but when times are tough, that magic can be harder to feel. This year, our local community wants to ensure every child in Hackensack and Backus experiences the warmth and wonder of Christmas.

   The Hackensack Chamber of Commerce is proud to once again sponsor the Giving Tree, a cherished tradition that brings smiles, comfort and a little extra sparkle to families in our area.

   All families within the Hackensack/Backus area are welcome to participate. There are no specific qualifications, but we kindly ask that those applying for the Giving Tree not be listed on other local holiday assistance programs. This helps us reach as many families as possible.

   Please note that the program is completely anonymous — only the coordinators know the names of parents and children. Gifts are provided through the generosity of our community, so we ask that wish lists remain reasonable and easy to find or afford. If you’re a grandparent applying, the child must live with you to qualify.

   Important dates:

   Request to participate by Nov. 25

   Tags on Trees on Thanksgiving

   Return gifts to tag location by Dec. 17

   Delivery on Dec. 21

   Requirements:

   1.  Must be Hackensack/Backus address

   2.  Children must be between the ages of 0 - high school senior

   3.  If you are a grandparent, the kids need to live with you.

   4.  Participation must be secured by November 25th

   Tag Locations:

In Hackensack: 

   Do It Best Hardware

   Marks Market

   Southside Fuel Plus

   Swansons Bait

In Backus:  

   American Legion 

   Godfrey’s

   To request gifts contact Erica by phone or text at (218) 675-6683 or by email at [email protected] or the Hackensack Chamber at [email protected]

   Include the following information:

   1. Parent(s) full name, address, email, and phone number

   2. First name, age, and gender of each child

   3. A wish list of both wants and needs for each child (within reason)

   4. Clothing sizes and any preferences (color, style, etc.)

   How To give:

   Giving Trees will be set up at several local businesses and be available on Thanksgiving. Each tag on the tree represents a child’s wish — maybe a cozy pair of mittens, a favorite toy, or a new to treasure. Take the tag with you and return with gift. Items should be new.

   Please return unwrapped gifts, with tag, to a tag location or mail with tag to The Giving Tree, 3489 Ford Dr NW, Hackensack MN 56452. If shipping from Amazon, please use the option for a gift receipt to add notes with the tag information.

   Monetary donations can be mailed to the Hackensack Chamber of Commerce or arranged directly through the Chamber office. Together, we can make sure every child experiences a Christmas filled with wonder, warmth, and joy.

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