Christmas tree scheme to boost older people charity’s services after shortfall

Wetherby’s leading older persons charity is launching a Christmas tree removal service this winter to boost funding for one of its most popular services.

Wetherby in Support of the Elderly’s (WiSE) Grass Cutting Scheme is currently funded by BBC Children in Need, but a policy change will leave the project with a £40,000 deficit next year.

To help, WiSE has set up a Christmas tree removal service as an extra service for winter work for the Grass Cutting Scheme when the winter work is quieter.

Mark Dobson, Chief Operating Officer at WiSE, said: “For years we have worked in partnership with Wetherby Young Offenders Institute to provide a grass cutting service for older people who find it difficult to maintain their lawns.

“This service is extremely popular and currently full. However, our funding will end in March, leaving us with a massive financial deficit that we need to find a way to fill.

“Therefore, to raise funds for our Grass Cutting Scheme, we are offering the collection of real Christmas trees in January. Real trees are beautiful, but once Christmas is over they are a pain to dispose of. We are hoping that people take up this service all in the name of a good cause.” 

WiSE are charging £10 to remove a tree which can be any size. The tree will need to be outside prior to the collection date from anywhere within the WiSE catchment area. This service is not limited to the over 60s.

To book a collection, please phone 01937 588994 and leave a message via the answering service, or email nicola@w-ise.org.uk Alternatively you can book and pay online at https://tinyurl.com/2rmm74f7