Johnston Health Foundation brings back beloved Festival of Trees

The Festival of Trees is returning to Johnston Medical Mall as a fundraiser of the Johnston Health Foundation. Holiday cheer will fill the mall all December long as it is transformed into a wonderland of sparkling trees and stunning decor for an estimated 15,000 visitors of all ages.

“We welcome local businesses, community organizations and individuals to participate by sponsoring a tree, lending their decorating talents, performing during the festival or taking a stroll through the mall,” says Allison Strickland, director of the foundation. “It’s a one-of-a-kind, special event where generosity, good will and joy unite for a great cause.”

The money raised will go toward screenings and other access to quality health care, scholarships to underserved youth for nutritional counseling and fitness instruction, and compassionate care at the SECU Hospice House.

“Our mission is more important than ever,” Strickland adds. “The past few years have shown a need for more supplies, more hands, and more accessibility. When you participate in the Festival of Trees, you make a wonderful, immediate difference in the health of our community.”

The festival originated with Keep Johnston County Beautiful.

The centerpiece of the festival will be the 15-foot-tall Tree of Light, decorated by volunteers at the SECU Hospice House in memory of loved ones. Admission is free and the festival will be open during mall hours.

If you would like to participate or find out more, call Amanda Johnson at 919-209-3594 or Amanda.johnson8@unchealth.unc.edu. Details are also on the foundation’s website.

Pictured: The Tree of Light will be a centerpiece at the Festival of Trees, which is returning to Johnston Medical Mall next month. From left, hospice volunteers Cecilia Hicks, Carolyn Jones, Gayle Koffer and Angie Mitchell place ornaments in memory of loved ones.