Non-Profit Celebrates Hoosier Heroes by Providing Free Christmas Trees

GREENWOOD — A heartfelt tribute to those who dedicate their lives to serving others is taking place this holiday season.

Veterans, first responders, and teachers often go unrecognized for their relentless efforts, but an annual giveaway aims to change that narrative by celebrating these Hoosier heroes.

“I just appreciate what people do for us veterans,” said Frank McMahon. “I was in Vietnam for 14 months and even today, people thank me for my service.”

This year, hundreds of Hoosier heroes were honored during the event.

“It’s always very heartwarming to give back again in a different way to our Hoosier heroes,” remarked Diane Markle, the Regional Impact Officer for Folds of Honor Indiana.

The national non-profit organization provides support to military personnel and first responders. This year, they partnered with local businesses such as Grinds Coffee pouches to make the event a success.

“Every year, we partner with Twin Peaks in Castleton and Greenwood. Home Depot donates trees and all the trimming and we are able to donate between 125 to 150 trees,” Markle added.

This marks the 11th year that the local non-profit has organized this event for veterans and first responders. For the first time this year, they expanded their outreach to include teachers and school staff as well.

“Nowadays, so many people are struggling just to even get anything for Christmas so being able to receive something for free brings a little joy during the holidays,” shared Carrie Lautzenhiser, a local school employee whose husband is a veteran.

Lautzenhiser was one of many recipients who received trees on Saturday, eager to spread holiday cheer within her community.

“We’re going to give one to my nephew and then we’re going to put it on my community Facebook page to see if anybody else wants a stand and everything,” she said.

“I got a couple of grandkids that live with me; they’ll probably be decorating it as soon as I get home,” added McMahon.

Around 250 live Christmas trees were distributed at both Indianapolis and Greenwood Twin Peaks locations, complete with stands, ornaments, and lights. Any leftover trees were donated to Helping Veterans and Families (HVAF).