The annual St. Michael Jesse Tree Ministry provides Christmas gifts to children in need throughout our community. At the beginning of Advent, our Jesse Trees are adorned with ornaments representing children’s gift requests, helping make a child’s Christmas brighter.

Last year, the ministry provided gifts for 1,051 children in 385 families, supporting families in St. Michael’s Hispanic Ministry, Pastoral Care Ministry, and children identified by social workers in eight local Cary elementary schools and two Wake County outreach organizations. This year, we aim to support 1,045 children in 390 families from 12 schools and community organizations. Each child receives gifts valued up to $60, with additional assistance for holiday meals.

Parish support includes 1,000+ gift donations, monetary contributions, and over 120 volunteers who help with shopping, wrapping, sorting, and distribution.

How the Jesse Tree Works

Ornaments: Trees in our gathering space are decorated with ornaments, each representing a child’s Christmas gift request.

Taking an Ornament: Parishioners select an ornament, purchase and wrap the gift, and return it with the child’s card attached.

Sorting & Distribution: Volunteers sort and prepare gifts for distribution, supplementing any missing items so every child’s wish is fulfilled.

Ways to Get Involved

• Volunteer: Over 100 volunteers are needed for sorting, shopping, wrapping, and distribution. Volunteering is a meaningful way to share your time, talent, and treasure, strengthen our parish community, and bring Christ’s joy to children and families.
• Donate: Monetary contributions are essential for fulfilling remaining gift requests and providing food gift cards for families. Suggested gifts of $60 help sustain this vital ministry. Every donation makes a difference.

The Impact of Your Generosity

By supporting the Jesse Tree Ministry, you help ensure that no family is forgotten this Christmas. Your gifts provide hope, joy, and tangible support to children and families in our community, spreading the love of Christ throughout the season.

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