By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation Christmas Tree Gala nets $165,000

Nov 22, 2018 | 10:18 AM

LETHBRiDGE —  The 26th annual Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation’s Christmas Tree festival has wrapped-up another successful event.
 
The Gala and Auction was held Wednesday (Nov 21) night with 26 decorated trees and other items, bringing in $165,000.00.
 
All the funds raised in the auction are for the benefit of the Chinook Regional Hospital.  This year, the money has been earmarked for ongoing renovation and redevelopment of the Mental Health wing. 
 
The trees were each decorated, usually with a specific theme, by local individuals, businesses and community groups.  Ths year’s themes ran the gamut from Mystics of the Sea, Boho Christmas, and Season of Hope to Moon Over Antarctica.
 
 The auctioned trees were purchased by individuals and  businesses and then donated to community organizations within Lethbridge, such as the Chinook Regional Hospital, Interfaith Food Bank, Lethbridge Family Services and St. Paul’s School.
 
Ahead of the Gala and Auction, the decorated trees were on display at the Enmax Centre, where it’s estimated more than 4,000 visitors viewed the decorated creations.
 
While this year’s total didn’t reach the record breaking amount of $230,000 raised 2017, it surpassed the almost $150,000 raised in 2016.