By Alec Hernandez –

The View –  

Most families here at Castle View are privileged enough to have a Christmas tree, lights, decorations, even tableware.

Most, but not all.

That’s why Spanish teacher Lisa Wille-Racine has hosted a goodwill project called The Giving Tree for the past five years in her classroom. The objective is to provide struggling families at Castle View with the necessities they need to have a merry Christmas.

Wille-Racine started the program five years ago when she overheard a student talk about not being able to afford a Christmas tree.

“Everyone deserves to have a Christmas tree,” Wille-Racine remembers thinking to herself. “That’s when the idea hit me and I went out and bought her a Christmas tree.”

That tree became the first Giving Tree.

Every year now, a tree stands at the back of Wille-Racine’s classroom, 3300, throughout December. As donations accumulate, Wille-Racine and student helpers distribute them to families. Eventually, even the tree will be  given away.

“I wanted to act locally and for it to be personal,” Wille-Racine said.

During the holiday season it is easy to forget about what is truly important, thinking only about receiving, not giving.

One donor who wished be remain anonymous loves to give.

“I love to donate” he said. “It makes me feel great seeing all the good it does to give, the joy in their eyes when they are told they are getting a Christmas tree for the first time.”

Although the Giving Tree receives four to six bags of donations every week, Wille-Racine said it has been only an average year of donations and the tree could use much more. Donations can be nearly anything, from Christmas decorations, canned food, or gently used household items and clothes. Everything is needed but household items like silverware or plates are greatly appreciated.