The City of Fairhope and Fairhope Public Utilities have teamed up with Ecumenical Ministries for a holiday campaign that aims to brighten the community far beyond the glow of holiday lights.

As part of the annual Lighting of the Trees celebration on Nov. 20, Ecumenical Ministries will help “flip the switch” to illuminate downtown Fairhope according to a news release. This year’s event carries a special purpose, supporting local families through the Utility Bill Relief Fund and a collection of non-perishable foods for Ecumenical Ministries’ Food Pantry.

Throughout the holiday season, collection sites will be available at the Welcome Center, City Hall and the James P. Nix Center, where residents can drop off non-perishable food donations. Per the release, all contributions will go directly to Baldwin County families in need.

In addition to the food drive, Fairhope residents are encouraged to support the Utility Bill Relief Fund. The program provides year-round financial assistance to neighbors struggling to pay utility bills. Contributions can be made through Fairhope Public Utilities bill payments.

“This campaign is about more than the lights,” said Mayor Sherry Sullivan in the release. “It’s about coming together as a community to make sure families in Fairhope have what they need this holiday season.”

Ecumenical Ministries, a faith-based organization serving Baldwin County for more than 50 years, provides a variety of programs to support residents in need. Its Emergency Aid Program assists with utility bills, rent and food, while the Repair Baldwin Program offers major home repairs to help preserve safe housing. The organization also delivers nutritious meals to homebound residents through its Meals on Wheels program and strengthens the community through the Christmas Sharing Program and other community development initiatives. Learn more  at www.baldwinemi.org.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the City of Fairhope,” said Sally Deane, executive director of Ecumenical Ministries. “This initiative reminds us that the light we share with others is the light that truly matters.”

Food donations can be made at the Welcome Center, City Hall and the James P. Nix Center during regular business hours or at any city holiday event hosted at the Welcome Center.