Gifts are displayed around the Giving Tree at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, which supports children and teens from families in need during the holiday season.
By SAYDE WISE | Journalism Student, Mount Union Area Senior High School
Mount Union, Pa. — Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, located in Mifflin County, hosts a program known as the Giving Tree. The Giving Tree is organized by Kylle White, manager of volunteer services at the hospital. White first started working at Geisinger in 2021 and was excited about taking over the project.
The Giving Tree originally began as an auxiliary operation led by a group of volunteers who were committed to raising money and helping at hospital events, but the committee eventually dissolved. White was determined to restart the program because she enjoys projects that give back to the community. At first, she assisted with setting up ornaments and decorations, but she soon became the face of the Giving Tree at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital.
The Giving Tree benefits children and teenagers from economically disadvantaged families who have limited resources to provide holiday gifts. First United, a local foster agency, connects families with the hospital. As of December 3, 2025, forty foster children’s tags had been chosen. An additional twenty children from another system had their tags selected, along with two private families. White said she has noticed more members of the community coming into the hospital specifically to find the Giving Tree. Visitors choose a tag from the tree that lists a child’s age, gender, and Christmas wish.
Adrienne Wise, a community member who participated in the Giving Tree, said the program gives people an opportunity to help others. “I believe when you have a chance to help someone you should take the opportunity. I am very blessed to be able to provide for my family, and I want others to feel blessed as well,” Wise said.
By the end of the first week of December, 600 tags had been printed. “The generosity that comes from the people who work at Geisinger is unbelievable,” White said. She added, “It warms my heart. I usually have to take four or five trips to the agencies before all of the gifts are delivered. This is one of the best parts of my job.”
This article was published as part of Ms. Dimoff’s Journalism class at Mount Union Area Senior High School.
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