Nyon, Vevey and Yverdon saw a solidarity tree grow. A lovely project which aims to allow each child to have a gift to unwrap at Christmas.
The Solidarity Tree was born in 2018. The project was launched by the Evangelical Reformed Church of Vaud, but is intended to have no religious connotation. It is aimed at children whose parents cannot afford to give them a gift at Christmas.
Children choose a type of gift, for example a puzzle or school materials. This wish is transcribed on a card which will decorate the tree. Everyone can then take a card, buy the gift, the value of which does not exceed 40 francs, and bring it back to the Solidarity Tree. The gifts will then be distributed to the children just before Christmas. Kevin Bonzon, who is at the origin of the Solidarity Tree, explains to us how he came up with the idea.
Among the most requested gifts, there are notably school or DIY materials. “I'm impressed to see the number of people who preferred this kind of gift rather than a Barbie. I think there is also the question of the long term. A pencil case for school is something that “a child uses it every day, so having a beautiful, brand new pencil case is important”, says Kevin Bonzon.
Families come to collect the gift directly from the Solidarity Tree, just before Christmas. Always a touching moment.
How do the children react to the fact that it is finally a stranger who gives them their Christmas present?
The action is all the more beautiful as we truly realize a child's wish.
If you would like to give a gift to a child, you will find the Nyon Solidarity Tree on Place Bel Air from December 6 to 18. In Vevey, it will grow on December 7 and 14 on the Place du 14 Avril. In Yverdon, the Solidarity Tree will take up residence at the Christmas market as well as at the Manor store on Mondays and Saturdays.
For families who would like to receive a gift, it is still possible to register in Nyon.
All practical information on: www.eerv.ch
