GOLDSBORO, N.C. – The holiday season has officially arrived at Berkeley Mall, and over the coming weeks, shoppers will see the local shopping center transform into a festive destination filled with holiday cheer.
As November and December unfold, Berkeley Mall will not only be bustling with shoppers and retailers but also with heartfelt community initiatives designed to spread joy to children and seniors across Wayne County.
Wish Trees Return to Support Local Children
Beginning the first week of November, visitors will notice a pair of Christmas trees near the front entrance by Jade Express and Fresh-O-Ade. While these trees may not sparkle with lights, they shine brightly in another way—they’re adorned with ornaments containing the ages, clothing, and shoe sizes of local children in need.
These “Wish Trees” are part of a long-standing holiday partnership between Berkeley Mall and WAGES (Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency), now in its second decade. Each ornament represents a local child enrolled in the WAGES program who would love to receive a special holiday gift.
Community members are encouraged to choose a tag and purchase items such as clothing, shoes, toys, or books. Once wrapped, gifts should have the numbered tag securely attached and be returned to GameStop inside Berkeley Mall no later than December 12.
Supporting Local Seniors
In addition to the children’s Wish Trees, shoppers may also spot special tags representing seniors from the Peggy Seegars Senior Center in Goldsboro. These tags are typically among the first to be selected, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to caring for its elderly residents.
Those who select a senior’s tag are asked to return the wrapped gifts directly to the Senior Center before the listed due date.
A Season of Sharing
Berkeley Mall’s annual Wish Tree program has become a beloved holiday tradition, connecting shoppers with meaningful ways to give back to the community. Whether fulfilling a child’s wish or brightening a senior’s season, every contribution helps make the holidays a little merrier for those in need.
