Visalia Christmas tree auction sells out, raises big money for charities

Nearly a quarter of a million dollars was raised for 24 local charities and nonprofits during the 35th annual Christmas Tree Auction on Dec. 11 at the Visalia Convention Center, according to the Visalia Chamber of Commerce.

Over 1,100 guests attended the sold-out event with a VIP dinner and general admission party. The main event, The JD’s Auto Outlet Visalia Giving Tree, was raffled off, raising about $3,000 for The Miss Tulare County Scholarship Program.

During the event, Visalia Rescue Mission raised the most funds for a live auction tree, with $91,600, Visalia Emergency Aid Council raised the most for a silent auction tree, purchased for $750, and CASA of Tulare County raised the most funds for a silent auction item, which sold for $700.

This story was originally published December 17, 2015 at 10:41 PM with the headline "Visalia Christmas tree auction sells out, raises big money for charities."