The Okotoks Museum and Archives is connecting seniors and children in the community through its Tree of Wishes.

For the past few weeks youth have been writing holiday wishes for seniors in the form of paper ornaments, and hanging them on a handcrafted wooden Christmas tree which will be delivered to The Heartland Senior's Residence.

Jaime-Brett Sine, Education Program Specialist, says it's the first year for the Tree of Wishes, which will become a Museum and Archives tradition.

"As part of our programs we're constantly talking about traditions right, traditions through history. This is kind of a new way of introducing an interesting tradition specific to the Okotoks Museum, it's something we plan on doing annually."

Sine shares the idea began when she realized outside of familial relationships, many kids do not have communication with seniors.

"This offers them an opportunity to send well wishes, whereas for the seniors it can be quite an amusing and touching way for them to hear from youngsters. For us it's really about connecting the youngest in the community with some of or more well-seasoned residents."

The Tree of Wishes will be delivered Wednesday, Dec. 20.

Sine says if any residents would like to contribute to stop by the museum before tomorrow.

"If they do have a young child, and they'd like to contribute their own wish to the tree they are welcome to do so."

The Okotoks Museum and Archives is open until 5:00 p.m. today.

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