The Christmas Tree of Hope of Butler County will hold its first ever lighting ceremony on Dec. 23, at the pavilion across the street from Hank Williams Park in Georgiana.

The county, non-profit program offers the chance for families to adopt needy families for Christmas.

Christmas Tree of Hope founder Shannon Middleton said they have helped many families already.

“So far, we’ve matched 26 families,” Middleton said.

At the lighting, which will be held from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., Santa Claus will be present to take pictures with children with Middleton Photography behind the camera.

Additionally, Georgiana Mayor Jerome Antone, along with a local church youth group, singing carols.

Angels will be placed on the Christmas tree and families will do drop offs and pick ups at that time.

The event is free to the public and a table full of baked goods will be displayed.

“We’re hoping to do this every year for all of Butler County,” Middleton said.

For more information or to apply as a sponsor for adoption, visit Christmas Tree of Hope’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/christmastreeofhopebutlercounty, contact Middleton at 334-210-0951 or Antone at city hall.