While most people hang baubles or figurines on their Christmas trees, the Bank of Montreal (BMO) is hanging socks, gloves and toques as part of a unique outreach project.
BMO is hosting its second annual Giving Tree from now until Friday, Dec. 20. Employees and residents are encouraged to bring in socks, gloves and toques filled with small gifts and items for children. These items will then be given to different charities throughout Moose Jaw; last year Riverside Mission and Transition House were the recipients of the donations.
This initiative was started last year after BMO staff decided to do give gifts instead of the usual gift exchange, explained BMO spokeswoman Cori Storozuk. The bank’s Christmas tree was purposely not decorated; instead, staff were encouraged to purchase a pair of socks and fill them with items for kids. The footwear were then tied to the tree with a ribbon.
Customers began to notice the unique display and wanted to participate as well, she continued. So the bank created a sign explaining how they could support the cause.
“We just had an overwhelming response from the community and from our staff,” Storozuk said. “(Some of) our staff bought two pares of socks, it was such a neat idea. Then we chose two charities right before Christmas and dropped them off … . I just find that at that time of year, there’s always someone less fortunate than you are, so it’s nice to just give back.”
A Christmas tree with heavy ornaments is likely to sag, which is something BMO staff hope to see, chuckled Storozuk.
For more information call 306-691-3707.
