BONNYVILLE - The Tree of Hope program has returned for another year – this time with a real tree. The charitable initiative encourages families to hang a decoration representing loved ones who have passed away.
While in previous years, the “Tree of Hope” was just figurative, this year organizers are putting up a real tree, adding to the holiday spirit.
The event is sponsored by Tellier Guardian Pharmacy and Canadian Natural, and proceeds from the Tree of Hope program go to the palliative care fund, under the umbrella of the Bonnyville Health Foundation.
Palliative care involves programs and services for people diagnosed with life threatening or terminal illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
While the holiday season is typically known as a time of celebration, feasting with friends and family, and exchanging gifts with loved ones, it can also be a tough time of year – especially with those dealing with grief from losing loved ones. When normal activities slow down during the holiday season, memories of loved ones can grow even fonder.
“Christmas can be a really hard time for people when they've had a loss of a loved one, so I think it's really important just to have that special kind of element to this event,” says Bonnyville Health Foundation Executive Director Dawn Weber.
Previously, the Tree of Hope program raised over $6,000 and last year was the first year the foundation accepted donations through its website.
Participants are asked to make a minimum $10 donation to hang a memorial ornament on the “Tree of Hope” at the Tellier Guardian Pharmacy between Nov. 15 to Dec. 24. The Tree of Hope memorial list will be published on Jan. 9, 2024, displaying names of cherished loved ones.
There is still be an option for those who choose to donate online available at https://bonnyvillehealthfoundation.org/
