By Breanna Herschelman
Each holiday season, Delta Gamma chapters across the country sell Christmas trees. Locally, the Shining Tree Lot, operated by the Washington University and Saint Louis University chapters, raises money for the Delta Gamma Center for Visual Impairments. In 2005, proceeds from tree sales topped $38,000. As a chapter requirement, each member must complete a certain amount of community service; the Christmas tree sale, which marks its 55th season this year, is one of the ways a DG can earn hours. Area tree farms donate over 1,000 trees, and the chapters also sell wreaths, garland, trinkets, ornaments and Braille holiday cards.
The DGC at 5030 McRee is one of only three centers sponsored by Delta Gamma in the country. The center helps provide children who have visual impairments with services to help educate and enrich them, as well as their families. The DGs also donate to the center through babysitting, off-site activities and craft donations.
The DGC Shining Light Tree Lot is located at the McCarthy Brothers Construction lot, 1341 N. Rock Hill; the sale begins November 24 and continues until all trees are sold, usually around December 20.
