By Justin Crann
The Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) is gearing up for its 21st annual Festival of Trees fundraiser.
“What people will see is that volunteers in our community have gotten together to put on the show of shows,” said Kelly McElree, executive director of the MJHF, “it has really become a tradition in Moose Jaw, and it’s a tradition of care.”
The event, scheduled for Nov. 17, is staffed and organized by a team of volunteers led by Laurie Kosior. The team puts hundreds of hours into the event “and that really shows in the details,” said McElree.
Started 21 years ago to raise funds for the Moose Jaw Hospital, the festival typically showcases a number of unique Christmas trees and displays, as well as live and silent auctions, a themed meal and music. This year, the theme is “A Canadiana Christmas, eh!” and will focus on Canadian culture and cuisine.
“Every display has meaning behind it and really speaks to the heart of the community,” McElree said.
“It’s a fabulous way for businesses in the community to support the foundation and Moose Jaw Hospital,” he said.
This year, the money raised will be used to purchase new cardiac and stroke equipment.
“The equipment we purchase from the funds raised at the festival is lifesaving equipment,” said McElree. “When people support the foundation, we insure that the best equipment in Canada, if not in North America, comes to the hospital.”
“We are purchasing for the hospital of today and the hospital of tomorrow,” he said.
Tickets for the event and the Festival Brunch are available at the Moose Jaw Health Foundation office by calling Sherryn Boszak at 694-0373. Tickets cost $125 per person for the Festival of Trees, and $20 for adults or $8 for children for the Brunch. People wishing to attend should order early as tickets sell out quickly.
