By Jeff Henson

Metis Giving Tree returns to GP Museum

Dec 23, 2018 | 8:06 AM

The tradition of the Metis Giving Tree is being brought to life for a fourth straight year at the Grande Prairie Museum.
 
Visitors are encouraged to stop by the tree, located in the Campbell-Rodacker Gallery of the Museum, and leave donations in the form of warm winter wear, non-perishable food and toiletries. 
 
The donations will be turned over to the Women’s Circle of the Native Counselling Services of Alberta, to be given to those in need in thr community.
 
The history of the Metis Giving Tree dates back many years ago to when there was once an old large hollow Maple tree located halfway between two Metis Settlements in Manitoba. 
 
Travellers would stop under the tree for a rest and often leave articles inside the hollow of the tree. 
 
Those who were in need could help themselves, but they would always leave something else in return.  

Donations can be left at the tree until December 31st.