This holiday season, let your Christmas tree symbolize more than just the warmth and joy of the season — let it be a powerful reminder of hope and renewal for young mothers and vulnerable youth. When you choose a fresh-cut (or potted) tree from an Aunt Leah’s tree lot in Metro Vancouver, you’re not just bringing the yuletide spirit into your home; you’re also lighting the way for those in need.
"Proceeds from our tree sales help Aunt Leah's to provide safe, secure housing for vulnerable young moms and youth leaving foster care," says Lesley Anderson, director of development and communications, Aunt Leah's. "This year we aim to sell 5,000 trees and raise $750,000 in revenue.
"These crucial funds support housing and the essential programs required to operate our housing services and facilities, essential life skills training, education and employment programs," she adds. "Last year we supported 432 former youth in foster care and gave a safe, secure home to 14 vulnerable young moms and their 18 children."
For three decades, Aunt Leah’s has turned holiday tree sales into a vital source of funding aimed at preventing moms and their babies and youth from facing housing insecurity and providing the support they need to help them achieve independence and stability.
Youth like S.T. understand firsthand the profound impact of Aunt Leah’s support, which changed the trajectory of his life.
"Before connecting with Aunt Leah’s, I had been living off bottle returns and panhandling and saw no future for myself," he recalls. "I would consider them angels on earth.
"S.T. has completed his culinary apprenticeship and is working as a cook," says Anderson. "He drops into our Centre in New Westminster to visit from time to time and we enjoy hearing about his success."
Locations to buy your tree, wreaths and accessories
Aunt Leah's established tree lots with high-quality, sustainably-sourced Christmas trees have been lauded in the communities for their efficient, friendly customer service and positive tree-buying experience. Run by staff and volunteers, they'll help select the right tree for you and will even trim, bag and mount it onto your car.
Vancouver Kerrisdale: St. Stephen's United Church (7025 Granville St.)
- Monday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Open: Nov. 22
Burnaby: All Saints Anglican Church (7405 Royal Oak Ave.)
- Monday to Thursday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Open: Nov. 23
Coquitlam: Eagle Ridge United (2813 Glen Dr.)
- Monday to Thursday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Open: Nov. 23
Holiday volunteer opportunities
Volunteering at Aunt Leah's tree lots is the perfect way to embrace the holiday season while giving back to your community. It's a great opportunity for families, friends or colleagues to volunteer together.
Aunt Leah's is currently looking for people with a wide range of skills to fill various positions, including cashiers, customer service representatives, and those who can lift up to 50 pounds safely.
Ken Gray, donor and volunteer began his experience with Aunt Leah's more than 10 years ago.
"I have returned to the same lot, year after year, where I see a lot of familiar faces. Recently, I started helping Fulton Tom and other volunteers with the Wednesday food program. I can’t think of many better uses for my time and money than helping Aunt Leah’s. And besides — it’s fun!”
Volunteers are acknowledged at a special celebration during National Volunteer Week, April 27 to May 3, 2025. "Our volunteers’ contributions of time, energy and expertise make Aunt Leah’s programs and services possible," reveals Anderson. "When people share their skills, empathy and creativity we are able to build a stronger, kinder community and improve the quality of life for all of us.
"For those who want to bring home the joy and hope of the season please purchase a Christmas tree from Aunt Leah’s. You will not only make your home a happy one over the holidays but you will help make the future brighter for hundreds of young people who have no family of their own.
"We thank all the families and individuals who visit us year after year to find their perfect Christmas tree."
For more information, visit auntleahs.org/trees, or to volunteer, sign-up at auntleahs.org/treelotsignup.
