If a tree is erected in front of a hospital, does anyone pay attention?
Very much so, as the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) said the 36th Annual Christmas Wish Tree campaign raised more than $142,000 from the effort at the Chatham and Wallaceburg hospital sites.
The Christmas Wish Tree has long been a holiday tradition across Chatham-Kent, offering families a way to honour or remember loved ones while supporting local health care. This year, the campaign once again brought the community together with generosity, reflection, and compassion, foundation officials said.
“The generous support of this community continues to make a real difference to patients and families right here in Chatham-Kent,” said Christine Mitchell, CKHAF president and CEO, in a media release. “Every donation helps ensure that our hospital teams have the necessary 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 raised through the campaign will be directed toward hospital equipment and programs that enhance patient care, comfort, and safety. From advanced diagnostic tools to innovative hospital programs, the contributions from the Christmas Wish Tree help ensure the community continues to receive high-quality care close to home.
Foundation officials said the success of the Christmas Wish Tree is also made possible by the generosity of local businesses who support this annual tradition.
“The Christmas Wish Tree is about more than fundraising,” added Mitchell. “It’s about honouring loved ones, celebrating memories, and coming together as a community. The love and support that our donors demonstrate each year allows us to continue providing care and comfort when it matters most.”
All individuals honoured during the campaign are recognized on the Foundation’s Digital Honouree Wall and in a special Christmas Wish Tree Tribute Video, created to celebrate the lives remembered and the generosity shared throughout Chatham-Kent.
For more information about the Christmas Wish Tree campaign or the Foundation’s ongoing fundraising initiatives, visit ckhaf.ca.
