18th Annual Tree of Light Planning Underway

BRIDGEPORT—Agency supporters, led by Honorary Chairperson Lucy Roberts of Southport, have begun work on VNS of Connecticut’s 18th Annual Tree of Light remembrance program scheduled to be held simultaneously in 12 cities and towns across the state the evening of December 11.  More than 1,000 area residents participated in Tree of Light ceremonies held across the state in 2007.  Host communities are Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Milford, Monroe, Oxford, Shelton/Huntington, Southbury, Southport, Stratford, Trumbull and Westport starting at 60 p.m.

The community ceremonies offer residents the chance to honor lost loved ones and respect their lives during the holidays, while also raising money to support VNS’ Hospice at Home™ and Medically Underserved programs.  The remembrance events feature nondenominational ceremonies involving readings, music, the lighting of candles and the illumination of a Tree of Light at each location.  The trees’ white, blue and green lights are symbolic of peace, dignity and comfort, qualities of VNS’ home health and hospice care.

Servicemen and women who have lost their lives in the line of duty in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraq Freedom during the past year will also be honored at each Tree of Light ceremony.

Participants may sponsor a light on each Tree of Light in memory of a lost loved one.  Names will be listed on the Tree of Light Memorial Roll and read aloud during each ceremony.  Each donor will receive a written acknowledgement of their support.

To learn more about the Tree of Light program, contact VNS Development Director Brinda Pola at 203.366.3821 X1098.  To make a tribute donation, click here to download the Tree of Light registration form, fill it out and return it to the address listed on the form.