FLORENCE, Wis. — For the past 28 years, St. Vincent de Paul in Florence has spearheaded an effort to make Christmas brighter for families in Florence County.

They are once again asking the community for help providing children with gifts of toys and clothing by donating to the Giving Tree. Area churches are also involved with the Giving Tree. Tags are available at Bethlehem Lutheran, Homestead Baptist and St. Mary Catholic churches.

Last year 39 families with 87 children received gifts and food at Christmas.

The following locations also have tags and drop boxes for gifts: Great North Bank at both Florence and Aurora branches; The Fence Post and St. Vincent de Paul store in Florence

To donate, visit any of the drop box centers and choose a tag from the Giving Tree, purchase the type of item indicated on the tag and return the gift with the tag to the drop box by Dec. 5. Do not wrap the gift.