A local initiative to raise awareness about mental health is also spreading some cheer at Lambton Mall.
The third annual Tamara's Trees of Hope, organized by Talk for Tamara (TFT) and the Sarnia Community Foundation (SCF), features 11 donated Christmas trees on display near the Marshalls and HomeSense entrance.
Sarnia Community Foundation (SCF) Executive Director Mike Barron said shoppers can purchase raffle tickets to win their favourite decked out tree and all the presents underneath.
The prizes range in value from $1,200 to $3,000 with all the funds raised going back to Talk for Tamara (TFT).
Lori Lumley started the non-profit legacy charity fund in memory of her daughter Tamara Lynn Lumley. The teen tragically passed away in October of 2018.
Barron said the holiday fundraiser will help support agencies involved in suicide prevention, youth mental health, and associated educational courses.
"Lori puts a lot of work into this and to see it grow in the course of three years from six trees to eight trees and now to 11 trees, it's just gaining so much momentum," said Barron. "Every dollar that she raises she puts back right into mental health in our community, and I think it's just a great event for this time of year."
Tickets go on at noon on Saturday, November 22 for $5 each, three for $10, eight for $25 or 20 for $50.
The draw will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9.
Since its inception, Tamara's Trees of Hope has raised nearly $27,000 for local organizations including St. Clair Child and Youth Services, Bluewater Health and Big Brothers/Big Sisters Sarnia-Lambton.
For more information visit TFT's Facebook page.
