Members of the community gather for the 32nd annual Christmas Wish Tree lighting ceremony at CKHA’s Chatham site on December 16, 2021 (Courtesy CKHAF) Members of the community gather for the 32nd annual Christmas Wish Tree lighting ceremony at CKHA’s Chatham site on December 16, 2021 (Courtesy CKHAF)
Chatham

Christmas Wish Tree campaign raises over $128K for warming cabinets at CKHA

The season of giving did not fall short for an annual campaign to support the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.

The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) Christmas Wish Tree campaign raised a total of $128,926 and honoured over 700 family members, friends, and loved ones throughout the region.

"The success of this year's fundraising campaign would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our community members and sponsors,” said CKHAF Board Chair Bob Hockney.  “The overwhelming response that our Christmas Wish Tree campaign receives every year illustrates how meaningful this local holiday tradition is here in Chatham-Kent, and further demonstrates our community’s strong commitment to supporting local healthcare.”

All proceeds from the campaign will go toward the purchase of new warming cabinets for the Chatham and Wallaceburg CKHA sites.

The cabinets were identified as a high-priority need for replacement at the hospital. The cabinets ensure that blankets are kept warm to help patients remain comfortable during their stay in the hospital.

“We were blown away by how many community members joined us for this year’s lighting ceremonies in Wallaceburg and Chatham,” said Hockney. “There is something very special about coming together in person to light the Christmas Wish Trees and to honour and remember all of the loved ones that we hold close in our hearts, particularly during the holiday season.”

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