TREE OF LIGHTS CAMPAIGN BEGINS
Give Your Gift of Enhanced Images!
A season of giving begins with Tree of Lights Campaign
The holiday season is just around the corner, and for many households across the Valley, a special letter will soon be arriving in the mailbox.
More than 3,200 letters were prepared earlier this month as a dedicated group of volunteers gathered at St. Francis Memorial Hospital for the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s (SFVHF) annual Tree of Lights work bee.
With plenty of letters, envelopes, donation cards and a shared commitment to local healthcare, volunteers spent the day folding, stuffing and checking the mail-out to help ensure the Foundation’s largest fundraising campaign of the year reaches households throughout the region.
“Our volunteers play such an important role in helping this campaign get off the ground,” said Erin Gienow, Executive Director of the Foundation. “Every letter that goes out is an opportunity to connect with someone in our community and remind them that their support helps keep essential healthcare services available close to home. We couldn’t do it without the generosity of our volunteers.”
This year’s campaign shares the story of Carol Van Massenhoven of Brudenell, who reflects on how St. Francis Memorial Hospital’s diagnostic imaging department has made a difference for her and her husband, Joe. Their experience highlights the importance of having access to essential healthcare services close to home.
Funds raised through the 2026 Tree of Lights Campaign will help purchase a new X-ray machine for St. Francis Memorial Hospital. Installed in 2012, the hospital’s current machine is nearing the end of its service life. Replacing it will help maintain reliable access to this essential diagnostic service, supporting timely diagnosis and care for patients in the community.
For many families, Tree of Lights is about more than supporting local healthcare. It’s also a cherished holiday tradition and a meaningful way to remember someone special, honour a loved one or express appreciation for someone who has made a difference in their lives.
Donors can purchase bulbs to light the outdoor Christmas tree in memory, honour or appreciation of someone special. Each dedication is displayed at the hospital on a bulb card, creating a collection of personal tributes throughout the holiday season. Bulbs can also be purchased as thoughtful holiday gifts, with a certificate provided to acknowledge the donation.
The community is invited to celebrate the start of the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, December 4, at 6:30 p.m. at the Railway Station in Barry’s Bay. The festive evening will feature performances by the Station Keeper’s Choir, treats and refreshments, and Santa’s petting zoo.
As the Valley comes together to celebrate the season, the Foundation hopes residents will consider making local healthcare part of their holiday giving.
“We all want to know that quality healthcare is here when we need it,” said Gienow. “By supporting Tree of Lights, our community can help ensure St. Francis Memorial Hospital has the equipment it needs to care for our families, friends and neighbours. It’s a wonderful way to give back during the holiday season.”
Donations can be made by returning the donation card included in the campaign letter, dropping it off at the Foundation Office, the Bank of Montreal or Northern Credit Union in Barry’s Bay, calling 613-756-3045 ext. 217, or visiting www.sfvhfoundation.com.
