The Dixon Chamber of Commerce recently launched its second annual Giving Tree fundraiser, an effort aimed at supporting local school-based resource pantries and collecting non-perishable food for families in need during the holiday season. Photo by Kendall Brown

 

DIXON, CA (MPG) – The Dixon Chamber of Commerce recently launched its second annual Giving Tree fundraiser, an effort aimed at supporting local school-based resource pantries and collecting non-perishable food for families in need during the holiday season.

The fundraiser, which runs through Dec. 15, will benefit the Dixon High Rams Vault, Maine Prairie High Vault and the Anderson Roadrunner Nest. The Dixon Chamber of Commerce has set a combined fundraising goal of $3,000, or $1,000, for each program.

“Our second annual Giving Tree started Nov. 3 and this year has some additional options,” said chamber manager Sara Echarte. “Come by the chamber Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. to make a donation. If you can't make it during these hours, you can send Venmo and we will hang your ornament for you. No donation is too small.”

The Giving Tree fundraiser originated with the chamber’s networking connections group, which meets on the first Thursday of each month. According to Echarte, the group launched the original event in 2024 to strengthen support systems for students and families and intends to continue the Giving Tree as an annual tradition.

“They first put the fundraiser together to help the community and they want it to continue on for years to come,” said Echarte. “They’ve also added a food donation barrel to benefit Cornerstone Church. We’ve already had a full barrel collected, which is awesome.”

Several adjustments were made following the inaugural event, including expanded beneficiary programs and new ways for donors to contribute.

“They have added the Anderson Roadrunner Nest since it’s new and, this year, we’re allowing donors to contribute through Venmo,” said Echarte.

The Dixon Chamber of Commerce is in the process of establishing an official Venmo for donations. Interested donors can visit the Chamber of Commerce, located at 220 N. Jefferson St., or meet with one of the network committee members overseeing the event, including Crystal Rico, Erin Johnston, Alisha Platt and Tori Hunt.

The Chamber of Commerce is finalizing an official Venmo account and donations can also be made through members of the networking committee, including Crystal Rico, Erin Johnston, Alisha Platt and Tori Hunt.

Community members can donate in person at the Chamber of Commerce office, 220 N. Jefferson St., or through networking committee members.

“You can contribute with cash, check or Venmo,” said Echarte. “Here, on the actual tree, we will write your name and donation down on a paper ornament and hang it on the tree.”

In addition to monetary donations, Cornerstone Church has supplied a collection barrel for non-perishable food items. Residents are encouraged to bring canned goods when visiting the chamber.

The fund distribution is intended to help the school pantries meet basic needs, according to Echarte.

“I’m hoping that they can help fill the pantries so that we don’t have anyone going without in our community, especially during the holidays,” Echarte said.

Donations might be tax-deductible and tax identification information or donation letters are available upon request.

Echarte encouraged residents who have not yet participated to contact the Chamber of Commerce or networking committee members.

“Reach out to one of us and we’ll get you involved,” said Echarte. “It’s easy, it’s fun and it’s rewarding.”

Local businesses and organizations that have contributed are also invited to promote the event on social media.

For more information, visit the Dixon Chamber of Commerce Facebook page or call 707-678-2650.