Meridian Splendor Masonic Lodge teams up with 368 Nutrition in Newport for ‘Giving Tree’

NEWPORT, Maine (WABI) – The community pleasantly surprised the Meridian Splendor Masonic Lodge in Newport this holiday season when they decided to bring back an impactful program.In partnership with 368 Nutrition and the fire department, the lodge brought back the Giving Tree.The tree has tags for over 100 children in the community and the response has shocked organizers.Being that the program is revamped, it was expected they’d serve about 60 kids but now they’re ready to surprise about 100 and there’s still time to give back.One mason did a surprise delivery at a local school this morning and it reminded him of the reason for the season. “The appreciation that comes from the school staff there has been remarkable and I got to see a couple of the children coming in through the school and seeing presents come in, all the children’s faces are lighting up,” said Hachey. “So it just kind of makes you remember what it’s supposed to be about this time of year given that Christmas is a big thing for families and not everybody can make it an actual event.”They are collecting donations through Friday, Dec. 18, however, if you drop by the store you’ll see there are still a few tags left and if you’d like to help, they will take it.Just drop by the shop, pick a tag and deliver the gift when you can.Hachey said they’re looking to not only bring this program back next year, but they’re looking to add another tree to serve the elderly community as well.Copyright 2025 WABI. All rights reserved. Read More