Festival of Trees Nov 14-15 features winter wonderland, opportunity to shop, give

ROCKWALL, TX (October 25, 2014) The 2014 Helping Hands Festival of Trees will begin at 10 a.m. Nov. 14 and 15, with a bevy of Christmas shoppers flocking to the Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront to kick-off their holiday shopping. This magical event allows visitors to tour a winter wonderland of decorated trees and wreaths that are available for purchase. 

The annual festival draws people together for a common cause – the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate in our community. Proceeds benefit Helping Hands of Rockwall County, the nonprofit agency that helps families in crisis remain in their homes with the utilities on and nutritious food on their table. In addition, The Health Center of Helping Hands offers basic, affordable medical care for the uninsured and underinsured. 

Dozens of decorated Christmas trees and wreaths are donated by local businesses and organizations. From elegant to whimsical, the one-of-a-kind trees – topped off with a visit from Santa Claus – create a beautiful holiday setting. 

Awards are presented for the best decorated trees. Last year’s winners were Rockwall-Heath Early Childhood PTA, People’s Choice; Bella’s House, Judge’s Choice; Expressions Home Décor & Custom Florals, Most Traditional; Rockwall Art League, Most Unique; and Aspasians, Best Small Tree. Worker Bee Studio earned the Repurpose Challenge Award for their astounding transformation of an old armoire from Centsible Thrift Store into a modern cocktail bar. 

Back by popular demand, the Boutique of Helping Hands will set aside a special area, selling the best-of-the-best donated merchandise at low prices. 

As the day turns into night on Nov. 15, the Gala begins. There will be a live auction, the raffle of an exquisite item donated by Willis Jewelers, and the sale of original holiday centerpieces that adorn each table. 

Helping Hands will also collect toys and gift cards so Rockwall children in need will have a good Christmas. 

“Please donate a new and unwrapped toy for the kids, or gift cards for teens, so we can share the magic of Christmas,” said Margo Nielsen, Executive Director. “Collection bins for the Helping Hands Toy Drive will be located in several area businesses, or you can bring donations to our campus at905 Williams Street.”   

In 2013, Helping Hands provided 1,045 children from almost 400 families with at least three new toys – and the agency hopes to that tradition going and growing this year. To donate, sponsor or purchase tickets, email kaydutta@rockwallhelpinghands.com. To learn more, visit rockwallhelpinghands.com or call 972-771-HELP (4357).

Edited for publication by Blue Ribbon News.

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