The Sheep River Health Trust’s Avenue of Trees is back.

Every November, local businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees for the event, which are then auctioned off or donated to families in need.

This year there are 23 trees on display, 13 of which are to be auctioned, with the other 10 being “Trees of Hope,” which are donated.

It not only provides trees for families who wouldn’t have one otherwise, but also acts as a major fundraiser for the health trust, bringing in over $23,000 last year.

All 23 are on display at the Okotoks Best Western Plus and can be seen there until Dec. 14.

Locals are invited to vote on their favorite tree at the hotel.

A few regular contributors are back this year, including Foothills County, whose public works-themed tree, complete with a culvert used for its base, has been drawing lots of attention.

One addition to this year’s Avenue of Trees is the title sponsor, Cargill.

The auction runs from Nov. 19 until Dec. 14.

Those wanting to nominate a family to receive a tree can do so on the Sheep River Health Trust website.