The fourth annual Merry Magic fundraising event will take place from Nov. 12 to 30, at the Links of Kent Golf Club & Event Centre, bringing the community together under this year’s inspiring theme: Hope for the Holidays.
Hosted by Merry Magic, the event continues its tradition of raising funds to support children and youth across Chatham-Kent. This year’s primary beneficiary is Noelle’s Gift to Children, an organization that directly supports students in both the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) and the St. Clair Catholic District School Board (SCCDSB). Funds will also support the Chatham Goodfellows and their annual holiday campaign.
The LKDSB is stepping up to support local children in need by sponsoring a special “Learning Tree” at this year’s Merry Magic CK fundraising event. The initiative brings together the LKDSB and the broader community in support of Noelle’s Gift to Children, which helps students across Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton access essentials they need to thrive.
The LKDSB Learning Tree will be part of the event’s Magic Tree Raffle, where community members can bid on creatively decorated trees surrounded by donated items. The LKDSB’s tree will feature learning-themed gifts such as books, STEM kits, art supplies, tech tools and educational games—all donated by LKDSB staff and school communities from across the district.
“Noelle’s Gift to Children is honoured to be a beneficiary of this amazing event,” said founder Lynn Paquette. “The Christmas season was one of Noelle’s favourite holidays, so this event perfectly aligns with her legacy of giving.”
“We’ve already seen an incredible response,” added Caress Lee, chairperson for Noelle’s Gift to Children (Chatham-Kent) and LKDSB public relations officer.
“Teams are coming together to donate themed gifts. Classrooms are participating while teaching students about community and giving back. Departments are choosing items that reflect their work and values. It’s a beautiful example of our LKDSB family in action.”
Funds raised through the raffle and other Merry Magic CK activities will go directly to Noelle’s Gift to Children. The charity supports students by providing emergency funds for essentials, supplying nutritious food during the school day and stocking Noelle’s Gift Closets in schools across the region.
The Merry Magic team has curated a full lineup of community events, including the Merry Mingle, where guests can browse and bid on themed tree setups while enjoying appetizers from local chefs, along with a Senior’s Holiday Tea, Gingerbread House Contest, Breakfast with Santa and more.
Over the past three years, Merry Magic has seen remarkable growth in sponsorships, attendance and community engagement. With new ways to donate—alongside beloved tree sponsorships and raffles—this year’s event promises to be the most impactful yet, ensuring a joyful and meaningful holiday season for children across the region.
“Merry Magic is a beautiful example of community generosity in action,” said Gary Girardi, director of education for LKDSB.
“The impact that Noelle’s Gift to Children has on students across Chatham-Kent is profound. We are deeply grateful that Merry Magic has chosen Noelle’s Gift as this year’s primary beneficiary—this support will directly improve the lives of countless students and families.”
“The generosity and support for our students through Noelle’s Gift is life-changing,” added Lisa Demers, director of education for SCCDSB.
“We are so pleased that our students will continue to benefit from this collaboration between Merry Magic and Noelle’s Gift to provide necessities that support student success.”
More than 15 trees have already been sponsored for the Magic Tree Raffle, and organizers hope to surpass 30. Local businesses, organizations and community groups are encouraged to sponsor a themed tree and help make the event even more magical.
For full event details, sponsorship opportunities and raffle information, visit www.MerryMagicEvent.com. To contribute to the LKDSB Learning Tree or learn more about Noelle’s Gift to Children, contact Caress Lee at caress.lee@lkdsb.net
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
