MOUNT FOREST – The Louise Marshall Hospital (LMH) Foundation is getting ready for the holiday season with its ‘Light Up LMH’ fundraiser.
Wanting to bring cheer to patients and staff who spend time in the hospital over the holidays, members of the community can sponsor an ornament on a tree or wreath displayed in the hospital.
“It allows us to raise a little bit of funds toward our primary goal for the foundation, which is to support the financial capital needs of the hospital,” said LMH development officer Amy Van Huss.
“It also allows us to decorate the hospital so we can we have a beautiful tree lit up in the lobby…”
Ornaments require a minimum donation of $10 and can be dedicated in honour of a friend, family member, favourite health care worker or in memory of a lost loved one.
The Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation Christmas tree. Submitted photo
All donations of $20 or more are eligible for an official charitable tax receipt.
Redevelopment
Van Huss told the Advertiser that in the past, LMH has done a “festival of lights” and exterior tree lighting outside.
However, the tree that used to be lit up for the holiday season was removed as a result of the hospital’s redevelopment and has yet to be replaced.
“This particular fundraiser, this is the first for us and … we wanted to bring a little warmth into the hospital because we have this beautiful new space,” said Van Huss.
“But we haven’t really spent a lot of time adding in the things that add the comfort.”
How to sponsor
To sponsor an ornament, visit the LMH Foundation office located in Louise Marshall Hospital or visit the foundation’s website at louisemarshallfoundation.ca.
Donations will be accepted until Dec. 22.
Ornaments can also be sponsored at the Mount Forest Scotiabank, which is matching donations received at the branch up to $3,000.
“We’re really pleased that Scotiabank is supporting us. They are really lovely community partners,” said Van Huss.
“We’re happy to bring the cheer and the holiday spirit to the hospital. It is a challenging place to be at the best of times.
“It’s nice to be able to bring that to the hospital at a time when you really are looking for your family and your friends.”
