State Christmas Tree lighting to benefit Mattawa residents
Washington State Christmas Tree shines bright in Olympia
OLYMPIA - Select children and families in the greater Mattawa area will be receiving donations from last Friday's Washington State Christmas Tree lighting ceremony in Olympia.
The tree lighting festival, organized by the Association of Washington Business (AWB), has raised money to benefit children and families in rural Washington communities for 26 years.
The AWB's fundraiser, dubbed the "Holiday Kids Tree," has raised about $300,000 for families in need over the years.
The money raised goes to 15 fire districts statewide, which use the money to buy food and gifts for select families in their community.
This year Grant, Grays Harbor, Lewis, Mason, Spokane, Thurston and Walla Walla counties will receive donations.
AWB Director of Communications Jason Hagey said Grant County Fire District No. 8 (Mattawa Fire District) will be one of the districts receiving funds. The fire department will provide food and gifts for select families.
The tree lighting ceremony took place at the state Capitol Building in Olympia. Every year, the AWB donates stuffed dolls or animals to decorate the tree. This year's theme was the Disney movie "Frozen."
The stuffed dolls and animals are distributed to children at the Seattle Children's Hospital after the tree is taken down.