Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) is thrilled to announce that the 2024 Parade of Chefs Charity Gala netted an incredible $265,000 in support of our local hospital.
This highly anticipated event, presented by CIBC Wood Gundy: The Seabrook Financial Group, was held at the Chatham-Kent John D. Bradley Convention Centre on Saturday, September 21.
The evening brought together over 225 community members, donors, and sponsors for an unforgettable evening of gourmet dining, live entertainment, and unprecedented charitable giving.
“The generosity and commitment of our sponsors, donors and supporters has once again surpassed our wildest expectations,” said Christine Mitchell, President & CEO of CKHAF, in a media release.
“This gala was about enjoying exceptional food, great company, and coming together as a community to support our hospital. Thanks to the overwhelming support of so many of our partners and friends, the success of the event will have a lasting impact on local healthcare here in Chatham-Kent.”
Guests were transported into a magical Secret Garden as the venue was transformed into an enchanting space filled with lush greenery, twinkling lights, and elegant floral displays.
The culinary experience featured unique food stations featuring dishes crafted by some of our finest local chefs and restaurants, including Centro Wood Fired Kitchen, The Chilled Cork, Gentry Manor, the John D. Bradley Convention Centre, Mamma Maria’s Ristorante, The Sol Kitchen, University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, and a flight of wine samples provided by Parlour Wine Co.
The gala, which was co-chaired by CKHAF Board Chair Bob Hockney and Board member Mary Rule, also received strong support from a wide variety of generous local sponsors, led by CIBC Wood Gundy: The Seabrook Financial Group, Precise ParkLink and TD Bank Group.
The $265,000 in net funds raised will directly benefit both Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) sites in Chatham and Wallaceburg, helping to fund critical healthcare initiatives and essential equipment purchases that will continue to improve upon the outstanding patient care available at our hospital.
“Our Foundation relies on the ongoing commitment of our sponsors, generous donors and hard-working volunteers to invest in crucial equipment and resources for CKHA,” Hockney stated, in a media release.
“This gala was yet another example of the spirit of generosity that exists in our community, and the number of local businesses and individuals who are dedicated to our cause. Because of their support, we can continue to make a huge difference for local hospital patients.”
The evening also included a special address by Aaron Ryan, Interim President & CEO of CKHA, who took the opportunity to introduce the hospital’s incoming President & CEO, Adam Topp.
Both leaders emphasized the vital role of community support in sustaining and improving local healthcare services.
CKHAF would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all attendees, sponsors, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the success of this gala. Planning is already underway for next year’s event, promising another spectacular evening in support of healthcare in Chatham-Kent.
For more information or to learn how you can support our Foundation and hospital, please visit www.ckhaf.ca.
