Community support makes Hospice fundraisers a success
By Brad Everett Times Contributor
Brad Everett Photo
“The Hike for Hospice had 200 participants who helped raise $20,000, and while the final numbers aren’t in for the Steering Toward Hospice gala, it was sold out and we are expecting to raise close to the approximately $240,000 we did last year,” said Judy McLean, secretary for the Wheatland and Area Hospice Society (WAHS).
Steering Towards Hospice began in 2014 as a fundraiser for hospice care in Wheatland County by the Cheadle Lions Club, where steers are raised by beef producers in Wheatland County and then auctioned off.
“It’s kind of like 4-H for adults,” said Dr. Joni McNeely, president of the WAHS.
The Lions teamed up with WAHS last year to make this a gala event, complete with dinner, auction of the 60 steers raised this year, a silent auction, 50/50 draw and a variety of door prizes.
“We’re very grateful for all the support we have received from everyone who has participated in these events,” said McLean.
While the fundraising is a vital part of WAHS’s work, events like Hike for Hospice and Steering Towards Hospice serve as important opportunities to build awareness, interest and develop ongoing support for hospice care in the area.
“To date we have raised $650,000,” said McNeely. “But the capital building cost is about $3 million plus the ongoing operating costs. So creating a compassionate community network is necessary for this work.”
WAHS is actively providing what care and services they can to patients and families who are facing end of life issues. They help to provide bedside respite and seminars on grief, and are developing palliative navigation, a program to assist patients and families with a palliative diagnosis sort through the challenges and options involved.
For more information on the Wheatland and Area Hospice Society and their program go to wheatlandhospice.ca.