By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation says its 36th annual Christmas Wish Tree campaign raised $142,031 to support priority needs at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Chatham and Wallaceburg sites.
The holiday tradition, which has run for more than three decades, offers families a way to honour or remember loved ones while contributing to local healthcare. Organizers say this year’s campaign once again brought the community together with generosity and compassion.
“The generous support of this community continues to make a real difference to patients and families right here in Chatham-Kent,” said Christine Mitchell, the foundation’s president and CEO. “Every donation helps ensure our hospital teams have the tools and programs to provide exceptional care close to home. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who participated in this annual tradition and helped make it such an overwhelming success.”
Funds will go toward hospital equipment and programs aimed at enhancing patient care, comfort and safety. Organizers say contributions help provide advanced diagnostic tools and innovative programs to ensure high-quality care close to home.
The campaign’s success was also supported by local businesses. Sponsors included Western Equipment Limited, Fairway Wealth Management, FirstOntario Credit Union, MC Business Solutions, Jayden Construction and Salus Mutual.
“The Christmas Wish Tree is about more than fundraising,” Mitchell said. “It’s about honouring loved ones, celebrating memories and coming together as a community. The love and support our donors demonstrate each year allows us to continue providing care and comfort when it matters most.”
Individuals honoured during the campaign are recognized on the foundation’s digital honouree wall and in a tribute video celebrating lives remembered and generosity shared across Chatham-Kent.
The foundation extended thanks to donors, volunteers, families and sponsors who contributed to the campaign’s success.
More information about the Christmas Wish Tree campaign and ongoing fundraising initiatives is available at ckhaf.ca.
