Inspired by the Reid’s Furniture North America Business Performance Group, Scott Reid and his team in Thunder Bay have launched a unique awareness and donation campaign benefiting eight local charities. The Reid’s Furniture charity Christmas tree auction aims to raise funds for local charities and is taking food donations for the Regional Food Distribution Association. The participating organizations include The Arthritis Society, Chartwell, DEK Addiction Recovery Foundation, Dilico Christmas Wish, PRO Kids, Shelter House, Team Werks Co-Op and the Thunder Bay & District Humane Society.
Reid’s Furniture is hosting its first charity Christmas tree auction, featuring eight beautifully decorated trees, each representing a local charity. Running until Dec. 15, the auction will see all proceeds directly benefiting the selected organizations. The launch event brought together a large group of volunteers who decorated the trees, showcasing the energy and passion these individuals have for their causes. Each tree is valued at $1,600 before decorations, with the funds raised directly supporting its designated charity.
The charities designed unique themes for their trees, with many incorporating decorations created by their own clients. This personal touch reflects the heart and effort behind each organization’s work and highlights the vital role they play in the community. Patricia Poohachoff, manager of Reid’s Furniture’s in-home design and décor department, emphasized how learning about each charity revealed the depth and significance of their impact.
Community members are encouraged to participate by bringing non-perishable food items and placing them under their favourite tree. All food donations will be distributed through the Regional Food Distribution Association. Additionally, the tree collecting the most food donations will secure an extra $5,000 for its charity from Reid’s Furniture.
The idea for this initiative came from a similar event held by a store owner in Calgary, which had proven highly successful. Inspired by the concept, Reid’s team refined the details and adapted it for Thunder Bay. The early response from the community has been tremendous, with food donations already exceeding expectations. The generosity has been so overwhelming that space is running out to store the contributions.
While the additional donation for the most popular tree adds an element of friendly competition, the goal remains to ensure every charity benefits from the proceeds. Finding good homes for the trees and supporting local organizations are the ultimate objectives of the campaign.
Non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at Reid’s Furniture, located at 900 Cobalt Crescent, until Dec. 14. Donors will also be entered into a draw for prizes such as a Stressless chair or a La-Z-Boy recliner. Bids for the Christmas trees can be submitted online here.
