FedEx, in partnership with the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, has achieved a heartwarming milestone in its annual Trees for Troops program by delivering the 300,000th Christmas tree to military families. This year, the program is set to distribute nearly 16,000 trees across over 90 military bases in the United States. The initiative brings festive joy to military families and honors their service and sacrifices, reinforcing the spirit of community and gratitude during the holiday season.
By Aubree Ross
Spreading Christmas Joy to Military Families
The Trees for Troops program, a long-standing tradition since 2005, has become a symbol of appreciation and support for U.S. military families. This initiative provides farm-grown Christmas trees to both domestic and international military bases, offering a touch of home and holiday spirit to service members and their families. The program’s success is a testament to the enduring commitment of FedEx and the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation to give back to those who serve the nation.
A Milestone of Giving and Gratitude
This year’s delivery of the 300,000th tree, celebrated at Fort Liberty in North Carolina, marks a significant achievement for the Trees for Troops program. Lance Moll, President, and CEO of FedEx Freight, expressed pride in the company’s efforts to support military communities, aligning with FedEx’s core mission. The program’s growth from delivering 4,300 trees to five bases in its first year to surpassing 300,000 trees over 19 years showcases the expansive reach and impact of this charitable endeavor.
The Logistics of Holiday Generosity
FedEx drivers have logged over 600,000 miles in the 18-year partnership to deliver these festive trees. The dedication and effort put into this program reflect the company’s commitment to spreading holiday cheer and supporting military families. Wendy Richardson, Chair of the Christmas Spirit Foundation Board of Trustees, highlighted the program’s humble beginnings and its evolution into a significant annual event.
Participating in the Season of Giving
The public can also contribute to this cause by donating a tree for delivery to a base. While the deadline for this year’s tree deliveries was December 3, the Trees for Troops website offers online options for tree purchases and donations, encouraging wider participation in this heartwarming initiative.
FedEx’s Trees for Troops program, in collaboration with the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation, exemplifies the true spirit of the holiday season by delivering Christmas trees to military families. This initiative not only brings joy and a sense of home to service members but also serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back and showing gratitude to those who dedicate their lives to serving the country. As the program continues to grow, it reinforces the message of community, generosity, and appreciation during the festive season.