30 Christmas trees to light up Marina Bay for charity

Singapore

IN the spirit of giving and good cheer, 30 beautifully decked out Christmas trees - dubbed ChariTrees - will light up the walkways of Marina Bay this Christmas in a show of support for the less privileged and to shine a spotlight on those who have given quietly to the community.

The trees, about 3 metres tall, and two grand arches will adorn the stretch from the Marina Bay Sands convention centre to Marina Bayfront. The trees will be adopted and decorated by individuals and companies, with funds raised going to The Business Times Budding Artists Fund (BT BAF). The fund has provided more than 16,000 financially disadvantaged children and youth with arts training and performing opportunities since 2004.

Certis is the presenting donor of ChariTrees 2018, while Prudential Singapore has lent its support to the cause for the first time.

Certis' head of corporate planning and group communications Tan Toi Chia said: "As we evolve as an advanced integrated security services organisation, Certis remains rooted in our commitment to make a meaningful difference to the community."

"We must continue to give back to the communities we serve. By supporting ChariTrees, we seek to empower disadvantaged youths to develop their talents and shine through arts-related programmes and activities."

The ChariTrees initiative was first held in 2011 to remind the community of the needy during the festive season and is now in its 8th year. Previously run by Community Chest, it is now organised by non-profit arts organisation The Rice Company Ltd.

President Halimah Yacob will officiate the lighting up of the trees on Nov 9. The Singapore Police Force band, students of Yishun Town Secondary School's National Police Cadet Corps band and beneficiaries of BT BAF will also perform at the ceremony.

Chairman of the ChariTrees 2018 Organising Committee Tan Puay Kern said: "This Christmas, we intend for ChariTrees to be a celebration of successes that have made a positive impact towards the community. The trees are dedicated to the many individuals, groups and organisations - community heroes that have gone the extra mile to touch the lives of our people."

BT BAF chairman Alvin Tay said: "Through ChariTrees 2018, we hope to spread the word and inspire more people to do something good for the community. We are thankful to our donors and partners for their strong support in what we do. Their generosity has been instrumental in enabling our children and youths to pursue their dreams and passion in the arts."

In the lead-up to Christmas, the ChariTrees will go on display for seven weeks, from Nov 9 to Dec 26. To add to the year-end festivities, BT BAF beneficiaries will also perform song and dance items on Nov 30 and Dec 1.

Each ChariTree can be adopted from S$12,000 and the donations are entitled to a 2.5-times tax deduction benefit.