Every year, one Perry tradition that inspires the gift of giving is the DHS Star Tree. The Perry Upper Elementary School Student Council organizes this annual tree, with the guidance of sponsor Mrs. Caprecia Betchan.
Betchan has been participating in this event for approximately 15 years. The Upper Elementary Student Council members involved in this project are made of 4th, 5th and 6th graders.
Betchan has been participating in this event for approximately 15 years. The Upper Elementary Student Council members involved in this project are made of 4th, 5th and 6th graders.
The students collect and wrap the gifts. After wrapping, gifts are delivered, either by DHS staff or educators from school to deliver to the families in need.
The stars placed on the Star Tree are the wants and needs for children who are currently in Foster Care in Noble County. Usually the foster children have eight needs/wishes. They have four needs for a coat, shoes, shirt, and pants. Then they also have four wishes like toys and gifts they wanted.
The stars placed on the Star Tree are the wants and needs for children who are currently in Foster Care in Noble County. Usually the foster children have eight needs/wishes. They have four needs for a coat, shoes, shirt, and pants. Then they also have four wishes like toys and gifts they wanted.
This year, there are 39 children on the Star Tree, which adds up to over 300 gifts needed. There are also often children added before the deadline. These wishes on the tree are fulfilled each year with the help of students and families, as well as lots of tremendous help from the community.
Star Tree stars (needs and wishes) can be found at Perry Upper Elementary School. Parents and community members are invited to stop by and/or reach out to the site office to select star(s), or stars can be sent home with students upon request. Please return unwrapped gifts to the elementary school or make a donation by Thursday, Dec. 7.
This is a great project to get the family involved in the season of giving. It will take participation from many to fulfill all the wishes and needs this year. Exchange Bank and Ditch Witch are huge donors/sponsors of the Star Tree that make the project possible, as well as several other community organizations.
If you have any questions, please contact:
- Perry Upper Elementary School: 580-336-2577
- Mandy Vollmer: [email protected]
- Caprecia Betchan: [email protected]