Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) is delighted to announce that its 35th Annual Christmas Wish Tree campaign, presented by WFCU Credit Union, has successfully raised $158,540 in support of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA). This cherished holiday tradition, which ran throughout the 2024 season and into the new year, invites community members to make donations in memory of loved ones, with contributions going to support the hospital’s most pressing needs.
“The generosity shown by our community during this year’s Christmas Wish Tree campaign, and really throughout all of 2024, is truly heartwarming,” said CKHAF President & CEO Christine Mitchell, in a media release.
“These donations not only honor the memory of people who have meant so much to us, but they also play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare services across Chatham-Kent.”
The success of the campaign shines even brighter in light of the unique circumstances faced this year, particularly the postal strike.
Despite these challenges, the generosity of our community could not be dampened, and an outpouring of support came in from across Chatham-Kent.
“We are so grateful to everyone who helped us overcome some unique challenges this year,” added Mitchell.
“We want to thank The Chatham Voice, who helped us distribute our special Christmas Wish Tree cards throughout the community, as well as all the wonderful donors who called in, stopped by our office in person, or donated online. Your efforts made all the difference as we were still able to exceed our fundraising goal.”
The funds raised through the Christmas Wish Tree campaign will be allocated to essential equipment purchases, program innovation, and facility upgrades at CKHA’s Chatham and Wallaceburg sites, ensuring the delivery of high-quality healthcare to patients throughout the region.
In the current fiscal year alone, the Foundation has committed nearly $1.4-million in total funding to CKHA to fund crucial programs and to support the purchase of vital pieces of hospital equipment, including a new Fluoroscopy Machine, two Electrocardiogram (ECG) Stress Testing Case Systems, a new automated Stroke Imaging System, Bladder Scanner and more.
“Now more than ever, the support of our community is having such a positive impact in our hospital, not just through their generosity over the Holiday season, but all year long,” said Bob Hockney, CKHAF Board Chair, in a press release.
“CKHA’s needs continue to grow as we work together to continue to provide world class care to patients. We are always amazed at the way our community steps up, time and time again, and enables our Foundation to provide the support needed to fund these crucial pieces of equipment and enhance the care available right here at home.”
The success of this year’s Christmas Wish Tree campaign was bolstered by the unwavering support of its returning Presenting Sponsor, WFCU Credit Union, along with contributions from key community partners including Western Equipment, Honey Electric, Chorley & Bisset, Fairway Wealth Management, FirstOntario Credit Union, Jayden Construction, MC Business Solutions, Postma Heating & Cooling, Progressive Ford, Salus Mutual, TekSavvy, and WINMAR Property Restoration Specialists – Chatham.
The annual Christmas Wish Tree Lighting Ceremonies were held on December 11th at CKHA’s Wallaceburg site and December 12th at the Chatham site.
As per tradition, these events provided a meaningful opportunity for community members and CKHA staff to come together, celebrate the season, and honor the memories of over 330 individuals.
For over three decades, CKHAF’s Christmas Wish Tree campaign has been a meaningful way for donors to pay tribute to loved ones while supporting advancements in local healthcare. The success of this year’s event highlights the compassion and unity of Chatham-Kent, ensuring a healthier future for all.
For more information about CKHAF or the annual Christmas Wish Tree campaign, please visit www.ckhaf.ca or call the Foundation office at 519-436-2538.
