Seventeen years ago, Jim’s Package Store in Oak Bluffs began selling Christmas trees. But the store wasn’t looking to make extra money during the holiday season. It wanted to give back to the community.

For 17 years, every cent made on Christmas tree sales at Jim’s goes to someone in need. This year the store is donating the proceeds to the Gurney family. In June, local conch fisherman Luke Gurney drowned in a fishing accident.

“We had 75 trees but we already sold out,” said Mark Wallace, co-owner of Jim’s with his brother Mike. “So we brought in 50 more trees.”

Mr. Wallace said the staff at Jim’s all donate their time, dashing out of the store to help sell the trees. Greg Carroll, owner of Bruno’s Roll-off, Inc. donates his time too, plus his truck to bring the trees to the Island, Mr. Wallace added.

For the past few years donations were made to the family of Jim Moore, who has been battling cancer. “We have people come every year, no matter who we are helping out. It’s really what this Island is about,” said Mr. Wallace.

All trees are priced at $39.

Mr. Wallace said that if any trees are left over come Christmas Eve night he has an incentive strategy he turns to. Jim’s closes at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and he sends all his employees home to be with their families. “Then I sit inside with the door locked surrounded by all the leftover trees. And if someone comes to the door I tell them the store is closed, and so are all the other liquor stores. But if they agree to buy a tree I let them in.”

Visit Jim’s Package Store from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. to buy a tree and help a family in need.