A different kind of forest is growing in Parys this festive season and this one requires no watering schedule, no fertiliser and no debates about which neighbour’s tree is dropping leaves over the wall. The Garden Boutique Eatery and L.Design Group have launched the Forest of Kindness, a Christmas giving project built entirely on generosity, which will take place from 16 December to 23 December.

A Forest Where Every Tree Has a Purpose

Instead of tinsel and plastic baubles, each tree in this forest carries a mission. Some trees collect warmth for people facing a tough winter, others gather comfort for animals, and one is dedicated entirely to sweetening the world, literally.

Organisers say the idea is simple. Every act of kindness becomes a seed and each donation grows the forest further. It is a gentle reminder that small gestures can make a big difference, especially at a time of year when many households and animal shelters feel the strain.

The Warmth Tree

This tree focuses on providing comfort to people who need it most. It accepts blankets, scarves, jerseys and warm clothes. The message is clear. Wrap someone in kindness, quite literally, and help them face the cold with dignity.

The Meowy Tree

Cat lovers have not been left out. The Meowy Tree invites donations of cat food, litter and cosy beds so that feline friends can also enjoy a gentler Christmas. According to the organisers, tiny paws can carry big hearts and a community effort like this ensures no whiskered companion is forgotten.

The Candy Tree

In true festive fashion, the Candy Tree adds a touch of sweetness to the project. It symbolises kindness shared freely and joy that grows from the smallest contribution. If ever there was a tree to remind people that giving can be fun, this one is it.

The Tree of Hope

Another tree in the forest focuses on education. The Tree of Hope collects stationery such as pencils, crayons, notebooks and art supplies. The idea behind it is simple. Every pencil plants a dream and giving a child the tools to learn is a gift that lasts long after the festive season.

The Santa Paws Tree

For dog lovers, the Santa Paws Tree is dedicated to shelter dogs who could use extra comfort this Christmas. Visitors can donate dog food, blankets and toys to bring a little joy to pups waiting for new homes. As the organisers put it, love has fur.

The Cozy Feet Tree

The Cozy Feet Tree encourages donations of socks and warm footwear for people who need them most. Sharing is warming and this tree makes it easy for visitors to offer practical comfort that immediately helps someone face the cold.

A Forest Built by Community Hands

The creative designs for the project feature families, pets and volunteers placing gifts beneath evergreens glowing with tiny heart-shaped ornaments. It reflects what the project aims to inspire. A season where people give without being asked twice and where generosity spills over into unexpected places.

The entire project is hosted at The Garden Boutique Eatery, making it easy for locals to drop off items while enjoying a visit. The organisers say this forest is not about grand gestures. It is about simple acts that, when combined, create something meaningful.

Where to Find the Forest

The Forest of Kindness is located at:

The Garden Boutique Eatery

8 Middel Street, Parys

Donations can be dropped off throughout the festive season. Anyone wanting to contribute is welcome to choose whichever tree speaks to them, a collection of 24 trees dedicated to acts of giving, whether it is warmth for people, comfort for cats or a sprinkle of sweetness for the community.

As the organisers put it, kindness grows best when everyone adds a little something.