By: Chris Parker
In the busy run up of events prior to Christmas, one of the long time favourites has for at least 25 years, been the Hospital Auxiliary Extravaganza. The annual event raises funds to assist our local hospital with buying new equipment. The funds often allow for upgrades that otherwise wouldn’t happen. Over the years literally thousands of dollars have been raised in this way and have been provided for x-ray equipment, specialized blankets, beds and bedding and any number of other things. In addition, the Auxiliary has raised funds to provide specialized equipment to help outfit the McBride based Ambulances. The Extravaganza which includes the sale of a wide variety of baked goods, breads, silent auctions, raffles, crafting of all sorts, the ever famous Cake Walk…and also features pie, ice cream, coffee, tea, apple cider and other beverages is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Hospital Auxiliary. It is held at EV Free Church early in December….in this case on Saturday Dec. 6th.
Annually the event raises between $3,000 and $4,000 and though the exact count was not known at press time, the Ladies of the Hospital Auxiliary were smiling as the event was once again a huge financial success. The organizing committee was quick to express their gratitude for the support of the local paramedics, several members of the public, as well as a number of the EV Free Church Congregation, who not only donated the use of their hall but, were once again part of the kitchen and support crew. In addition the dozens of people who donated their wonderful cakes, baked goods, sewing and crafts of all kinds and then came and bought the various things on offer. Attendees from Valemount, Dunster, Crescent Spur, Dome Creek as well as the Village of McBride were observed among the participants and volunteers at the event.
Among the various prize and raffle winners were: Ryder Wiltsie 1st Prize in the raffle for The Christmas Hamper and Emma Street (grandaughter of Linda and Leonard McCarty) who won 2nd prize… a Christmas turkey.
The Auxiliary meets the first Monday of the month at the hospital to further their work, and welcome new members at any time.
Just one more example of how a small group supported by this wonderful community and surrounding area works together to provide services and events that make it a special place to call home.
