There’s no question Quesnel has a lot of heart after organizers tallied the results from the 18th annual Hearts for Hospice fundraiser.
The event, which was held Feb. 9 at the Quesnel and District Seniors Centre, raised $40,000 for the Quesnel and District Hospice Palliative Care Association.
“It is an amazing amount,” said executive secretary and fundraiser Sherry Webster. “It was a packed house, and everybody opened up their wallets to support Hospice. We’re all very appreciative and overwhelmed with the support, and we look forward to what we can accomplish this year.”
The QDHPCA, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary, works to ensure the best possible care for individuals who are facing life-limiting illnesses or who need end-of-life care and grief and bereavement support, as well as their families.
The amount of money raised by the Hearts for Hospice event has been steadily rising over the last four years. The total raised has gone up from $22,000 four years ago to $24,000, then $30,000 last year and $40,000 this year.
This year, the dessert auction alone raised $5,525, and there was also a live auction, a silent auction, basket draws, a getaway box draw and a 50/50 draw. Guests enjoyed a meal catered by Cricket 14 and live music by Kordoroy. Keith Corbett was the auctioneer for the evening.
During the event, which was emceed by Mayor Bob Simpson, Quesnel and District Hospice Palliative Care Association president Louise Scott recognized the board members and thanked everyone for coming to the fundraiser.
“Without this kind of support, we would not be able to do what we do for hospice and palliative care patients in Quesnel,” she said.
“You are part of that, and so are our businesses and artisans [who contributed auction items].