This holiday season, compassion poured in from across the region. Community members, local businesses, St. Mary’s Health (SMH) employees, and supporters from surrounding areas all came together in a truly generous way. Thanks to this widespread support, the SMH Angel Tree provided gifts, food, and essential necessities for 19 local families and brought Christmas joy to 53 children.
Your kindness ensured that the spirit of giving and hope remained strong.
“The Angel Tree was made possible entirely through the compassion of our supporters, including community members, regional donors, and SMH employees,” said Kristi Poxleitner, Radiology Manager at SMH and volunteer coordinator of the Angel Tree. “Each year, we witness an outpouring of generosity that is truly extraordinary. It is humbling to see how deeply our community cares for families in need, and how consistently they step forward to brighten the holidays for others.”
Kristi shared that the mission behind the Angel Tree remains deeply meaningful. “Our mission is simple yet meaningful...to help create a joyful Christmas for those who may be facing difficult times. Because of the remarkable kindness shown year after year, we can bring that hope and happiness to many families.”
She added, “I am genuinely honored to be part of a program that uplifts children and families in such a powerful and heartfelt way.”
The Angel Tree is part of the St. Mary’s Health Foundation’s Community Fund, which supports mission-driven needs throughout the year. Beyond Christmas, this fund helps local families during times of hardship and crisis, ensuring compassionate assistance is available whenever it’s needed most.
If you would like to learn more or find out how you can continue supporting the SMH Foundation, please contact Brynn Knudson, Director of the SMH Foundation, at brynn.knudson@kh.org or (208)476-8020 for more information.