Kindness Shines Bright through Vina Moses Center’s Giving Trees 

CORVALLIS, Ore. — The Vina Moses Center is helping brighten the holidays for local families through its annual Giving Tree program, a community tradition that continues the legacy of the Center’s founder. 

For decades, the Vina Moses Center has supported Benton County residents with essential services like a food pantry, clothing assistance, school supplies and seasonal programs for families in need. One of its most cherished efforts is the Giving Tree initiative, which provides new gifts for children and teens ages 0–18 throughout the community. 

This year, Benton County is one of over 60 Giving Tree hosts. Tags printed with child ages and wish lists are displayed on a holiday tree in the lobby of the Kalapuya Building at 4500 Research Way in Corvallis. Community members and County employees can choose a tag, purchase a gift and return it to the tree or directly to the Vina Moses Center at 968 NW Garfield Ave. in Corvallis. 

The County’s participation was made possible by the efforts of Marriah De La Vega, executive assistant to the Board of Commissioners and the county administrator. Marriah’s colleagues admire the unfailing kindness and compassion she demonstrates daily in interactions with the public and County employees. 

“I had seen the Giving Trees around town and wanted to bring one here,” De La Vega said. “This means a lot to me because I feel like it is important to help people have a good Christmas.” 

The need and the impact are both significant. 

“Each year, support from partners like [Benton County] helps kindness shine brightest this season for families facing hardship,” said Peter Merten, program and development specialist with the Vina Moses Center.  

“Last year, our community collected gifts that went to 1,873 kids. Everything is given away for free in our seasonal, pop-up Vina’s Giving Tree stores. We are profoundly grateful for your kindness — you’re creating a positive memory for a child that they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.” 

Community members can find a full list of Giving Tree locations on the Vina Moses website, and those who want to enroll, donate or volunteer can learn more by emailing info@vinamoses.org or calling 541-753-1420.  

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