Riverside Launches Annual Trees of Christmas Giving Program Across District Long-Term Care Homes

November 14, 2025

Riverside Health Care is pleased to announce the return of its annual Trees of Christmas Giving program, now underway at Emo Health Centre, Rainycrest Long Term Care Home, and Rainy River Health Centre.

This much-loved holiday initiative brings joy, comfort, and connection to long-term care residents by inviting community members to select an angel tag from one of the Trees of Christmas Giving and purchase a thoughtful gift for a resident. Each year, this tradition highlights the generosity and spirit of the Rainy River District, with families, individuals, and businesses coming together to ensure every resident feels remembered and valued during the holiday season.

Each angel tag includes a simple wish list and basic sizing information to help guide gift selection. No resident names are included on the tags, ensuring privacy is respected. The wish lists are meant only as suggestions; there is no obligation to fulfill the entire list. Riverside encourages donors to give what feels right for them, as every contribution, big or small, is valued and deeply appreciated by our residents and care teams.

Participants are invited to return their unwrapped gift in a gift bag, along with the angel tag, to the home where they selected it. All gifts must be returned no later than Monday, December 15, 2025, to ensure they can be sorted, wrapped by our Riverside “Santa Helpers,” and delivered to residents on Christmas Day.

For many residents, especially those without close family or friends nearby, the Trees of Christmas Giving program is a cherished reminder that their community is thinking of them. This long-standing tradition helps foster compassion, belonging, and holiday warmth across our district.

Popular wish list items include cozy blankets, rubber-soled slippers, sweaters or adaptive clothing, electric shavers, personal care items, and large-print or activity books. Riverside kindly asks participants to avoid including perishable foods, scented items, live plants, breakable or sharp objects, and slippery footwear to ensure resident safety.

Riverside is truly grateful for the continued generosity shown by our community each year. The kindness behind every donated gift brings comfort, joy, and a sense of connection to our residents. Together, we can make this holiday season brighter for everyone who calls our long-term care homes home.

For more information on the Trees of Christmas Giving program, please contact Calli Vandenbrand, Resident Experience and Activation Coordinator, at 807-274-3261 ext. 2543.

Media Reference: Kathryn Pierroz - Communications Coordinator, Riverside Health Care, 807-274-3261 ext. 4525