WESTLOCK - Westlock Continuing Care residents cheered and clapped when they learned that $15,690 had been raised via the sixth-annual Tree of Hope campaign.
Proceeds from the fundraiser, which wrapped Jan. 6, will be used to get the centre’s six fireplaces back in working order, while any remaining dollars will be used to upgrade the window coverings to the south- and west-facing resident rooms which become warm in the summer and need improved temperature control. The centre normally houses 120 residents, which is maximum capacity, and usually has 20 day-support residents, although that program is currently shelved due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Westlock seniors’ health manager Meagonn Forstey, who’s helped co-organize the program this winter with hospital manager Sherry Gough, said residents were very moved and grateful as they realize that COVID-19 has hurt the community financially. Forstey noted previously that the residents love the fireplaces as it’s probably one of their favourite features at the facility.
“From my perspective I was almost overwhelmed by how generous people can be right now considering the state of our local economy,” said Forstey.
“I think that one of the main emotions residents here have felt through the pandemic is loneliness. And I think that this really shows that the community cares about them. Even if they can’t lay eyes on each other they know that there’s people in the community who care.”
Last year the campaign raised over $16,000 which went towards the purchase bassinets and rocking chairs for maternity patients at the Westlock Healthcare Centre, while in past years funds have been used to purchase everything from a pediatric cardiac monitor, to a neonatal monitor and a ventilator.
Participation was simple as people were asked to buy an ornament to be placed on one of the two Trees of Hope on display at the main entrances of the Westlock Healthcare Centre and Continuing Care Centre. Donations of $10, $20, $25, $50 would buy either a teddy bear, candy cane, candle or red bulb ornament, while $100 purchased a bell ornament and $500 bought a bronze star. A $1,000 donation paid for a silver star, $2,000 got a gold star and a Christmas Tree, while a donation of $5,000 lit an angel on top of the Tree of Hope.
George Blais, TownandCountryToday.com
