The holiday season is upon us, and for many in South Georgia, it’s a tradition to honor and remember friends and loved ones through contributions for the Archbold Foundation’s Tree of Lights. 

This year, the community will gather on the hospital’s front lawn to celebrate the annual lighting of the hospital tree. The event, which is presented by TC Federal Bank, will take place Thursday, December 5, at 6 p.m. on Archbold Memorial Hospital’s front lawn located on Gordon Avenue. Guests will enjoy s’mores, hot chocolate and a special musical performance followed by the anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. 

“The Tree of Lights ceremony marks the beginning of the holiday season for our community, and serves as a celebration of life for attendees,” said Vann Middleton, president of the Archbold Foundation. 

“Hospice is a ministry that touches so many in our community,” said Greg Eiford, president of TC Federal Bank. “We’re so glad we could partner with the Archbold Foundation and Hospice of Southwest Georgia for this event.”

Throughout the season, gifts may be made in memory or honor of a loved one. Individuals honored and family members of those remembered will receive a special card letting them know a gift has been given in their honor or on their behalf. Cards for the Tree of Lights are sent throughout December. A donation of $10 per individual honored is suggested, but gifts of any size are welcome. 

Each light on the tree, located at the hospital’s main entrance on Gordon Avenue, symbolizes a gift made in honor or in memory of a loved one. The tributes made to the Tree of Lights help provide critical resources for special programs Hospice of Southwest Georgia offers to patients, families and our communities. 

For more information about the Archbold Foundation Tree of Lights or to make a donation, call (229) 228-2924 or visit www.archboldfoundation.org.