Keep the giving spirit of the season going over the next few weeks by recycling your Christmas tree.
A variety of opportunities are available over the coming days to bring your real Christmas tree to a local non-profit organization for chipping by donation.
First up are the Castaway Wanderers and the Oak Bay firefighters.
Support the Castaway Wanderers RFC’s numerous all-ages sports programs at Windsor Park Dec. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 pm., Jan. 1 from noon to 4 p.m. and Jan 2, 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The annual service raises funds by donation to run programs for those aged 8 to 80.
Oak Bay Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation also plans to chip trees, in its annual fundraiser Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bring your tree to the parking lot adjacent to the Monterey Avenue fire hall and support the firefighters’ scholarships for local students.
The University of Victoria Vikes men’s and women’s cross country teams continue a 17-year Christmas tree tradition this year, selling trees then welcoming them back for recycling. Proceeds support one of UVic’s most successful varsity programs.
Bring your tree to Centennial Stadium for chipping Jan. 7 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Head to Save-on-Foods at Fort and Foul Bay Jan. 7 and 8 for Chip in for the Kids, a fundraiser for the Easter Seals.
Additional drop-offs are available at the Save-on-Foods at University Heights (Shelbourne and McKenzie) and Tillicum Centre, plus Broadmead Village and Westshore Town Centre.
Hosted by volunteers from Lions clubs in each community, the annual event supports children with disabilities on Vancouver Island, raising money for Easter Seals programs, including Camp Shawnigan.
Drop off between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. both days.
A pick-up service is also available – have your tree picked up right from your door Jan. 7 for a minimum donation. Register at www.ocean985.com or www.kiss1031.ca.