Catholic Charities Giving Tree at Mall of America

Catholic Charities will be hosting the 31st Annual Giving Tree event at Mall of America this year!

One of my holiday traditions has been purchasing items for those in need and donating.  In previous years I’ve found trees in various malls or stores that had an ornament or small tag with a specific need or want. 

I would then purchase the item and bring it back to that location.  Since the pandemic the needs have grown and the way people give has changed.  

The Catholic Charities Annual Giving Tree event at Mall of America is a way to continue the tradition.  The event is only for two days so they ask that you view the wish list here and bring the items December 16th- 17th. 

In the past I have had success finding brand new items at thrift stores.  Example brand new sheet sets and packages of underwear.  It’s worth checking there or the current sales at your favorite stores.  

If you aren’t in the metro or already have plans this weekend, there are other ways you can donate. Take a look at the other opportunities here. 

Additional Information About the Catholic Charities Giving Tree Event: 

This is a festive family-friendly event that provides community members of all ages with easy ways to give back and spread some holiday spirit! The two-day event features opportunities to shop for someone in need; participate in quick volunteer activities; learn more about the work of Catholic Charities; and meet therapy animals, inlcuding alpacas, llamas, dogs, and cats. Giving Tree will take place at the Mall of America (Macy’s Court) from 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16th and Sunday, December 17th.

Giving Tree supports Catholic Charities’ efforts to provide housing, emergency shelter, and direct services to more than 20,000 men, women, children and families every year. At the event, attendees can:

• shop for someone in need;
• assemble “sock-n-rolls,” which are cold-weather care packages consisting of socks, handwarmers, lip balm, tissues, and lotion — showing just how easy it is to make a difference for a neighbor served by Catholic Charities;
• And this year, North Star Therapy Animals — including alpacas, llamas, dogs, and cats — will be at the Giving Tree from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm on Saturday, December 16, and from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm on Sunday, December 17. Catholic Charities’ trauma-informed care approach aims to respond to individual needs in a safe, supportive environment — and therapy animals offer emotional support for clients and staff alike.

“The essential items donated through Giving Tree are critical in our efforts to support our neighbors across the Twin Cities as they work toward stability,” said Keith Kozerski, Chief Program Officer at Catholic Charities. “We invite you to join Giving Tree — a symbol of our shared commitment to the common good.”