On December 5, 2025, the Shapiro Administration invited Pennsylvanians to donate Christmas trees to active-duty military members and their families through the “Trees for Troops” program. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and Deputy Adjutant General – Army Maj. Gen. Michael E. Wegscheider participated in the event at Bustard’s Christmas Trees in Lansdale, Montgomery County. They joined service members in cutting down trees and loading them onto trucks for delivery.
First Lady Shapiro expressed her support for the initiative, saying, “Our military members who are serving our country, and their families, make a really big sacrifice to keep us all safe.” She added that donating trees helps military families celebrate with a piece of Pennsylvania.
Secretary Redding encouraged residents to contribute by saying, “As you shop for a fresh-cut Pennsylvania tree this season, I hope you’ll pause to honor our servicemen and women by donating a tree for their families.” The program offers an opportunity to show gratitude and brighten the holidays for those who serve.
Since its inception in 2005, Trees for Troops has delivered over 309,000 Christmas trees to military families worldwide. The initiative is part of the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation under the National Christmas Tree Association. Donations can be made at four locations in Pennsylvania or online before December 8: Strathmeyer Christmas Trees in York; Yenser’s Tree Farm in Lehighton; Bustard’s Christmas Trees in Lansdale; and Kenny’s Christmas Trees in Spring House.
Maj. Gen. John Pippy from the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs thanked the Shapiro Administration and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for supporting service members during the holiday season. He noted that a Christmas tree brings warmth and connection to military families.
Bustard’s Christmas Trees has been providing quality trees since 1929 and has received national recognition for its products. Partner Jay Bustard said it is “a privilege to support our military and their families.”
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture plays a significant role in supporting this initiative.
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