The true spirit of Christmas is alive and well.

The Newman Catholic Center has set up a “Giving Tree” in their lobby. The 8-foot tree is adorned with 300 ornaments, each one containing the name or description of a person “who might go without any gifts this Christmas,” said Kathy Engleton, coordinator of the Newman Justice and Peace program

“The team brainstormed for an idea because we wanted to do something to help those who are less fortunate,” Engleton said.

The 300 names came from DeKalb County Nursing Home, PADS and Safe Passage. Parishioners were asked to take an ornament and buy a $10 gift for the person.

Engleton said there are about 50 names left on the tree. “We are very pleased with the success, it really shows the spirit of giving and Christmas,” she said.

Anne Boyle, activities director for the DeKalb County Nursing Home, said the residents are “very receptive.” The gifts will be distributed at the residents’ Christmas parties.

Boyle said the program is proving to be “successful” and she has found the community “willing and generous.”

Gifts for nursing home residents can be brought to Newman, with the ornament attached, by Monday. Gifts for other organizations are needed by Dec. 18.