SPOKANE, Wash. – Despite freezing temperatures, hundreds of people gathered to pick out Christmas trees, supporting a local cause.
The event marked the start of the Hutton Settlement’s “12 Days of Christmas Tree Farm Fundraiser and Market.” The fundraiser features about 1,100 pre-cut trees and additional U-cut trees, all benefiting the nonprofit’s programs.
Hutton Settlement provides a safe space and educational programs for children ages 6 to 18. Jessie Laughery, the director of engagement, highlighted the involvement of the children in the event. “The kids do everything you’ll see them out sawing trees they’re working in the hut doing cash registers,” Laughery said. “They really take a lot of pride in being able to be out here engaging with the community.”
Scarlett Kinville, a resident of Hutton Settlement, shared her personal story. “I lost my mom when I was 6,” Kinville said. “I was scared to go on adventures and just recently I was able to go on a backpacking trip.”
The tree sales and holiday market will continue until December 10.
