The first meeting of 2016 was held in the cafeteria. Many members attended to review past events, and to participate in discussion and planning as the 71st year of the auxiliary begins.
Special events play an integral part in fundraising.
The Cookie Walk was the most successful ever with sales in excess of $900. Even after the sale, members were called asking whether there were any cookies left for sale. There was not even one! Sincere thanks to those who donated, and to those who purchased. Debbie Heise did a super job as chairperson in contacting members and setting up in the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall. Thanks also to June McConnell and Carole Labelle.
Book sales from May to October at the Farmers’ Market netted over $1,200. The next book sale is on January 29 (5 to 8 pm) and January 30 (9 am to 2 pm) in the cafeteria. Many “new” (read by only one person) books will be available.
Your donations to the coin boxes located at many places around town are appreciated. In 2015 the net gain was more than $1,000.
The Memory Tree was set up and cards in memory of a loved one were hung on the tree. There is not much profit made on the beautiful stained glass ornaments that are taken home but it is a service that will probably continue.
In recognition of the recent $16,500 purchase of equipment there will be recognition on the Tree of Life located in the hallway. The inscription chosen is “Enhancing Patient Services.”
Patients who were hospitalized over Christmas each received a card and a polar fleece blanket. Marilee Hore, Debbie Heise and June McConnell made them. As well, Life Member Jean Cunningham received one. A New Year’s Baby gift is also provided by the Auxiliary.
Two students continuing their studies in post-secondary education each received a $500 bursary at Awards Night from MHC Auxiliary member Doug Hore. Madison Rolston and Hannah Chapman were the recipients. Congratulations girls!
Free television at the Manitoulin Health Centre is a service provided to patients. There is an ongoing outlay of about $1,000 a year to purchase headsets. By regulation, they are discarded after use by one patient. Care bags containing toiletries are also available and are distributed by the nursing staff. If you have shampoo, lotion etc. that have not been used you can donate them for use in care bags. They can be left at the tuck cart room.
Thank you for Christmas cards received by the MHC Auxiliary. Special thanks to the Little Current Medical Associates for the donation included in the card.
The Spring Conference is an opportunity for the education of members. This year’s theme is “Our Volunteers Are Stars.” The conference is being held on April 1 and 2 at the Day’s Inn in Sault Ste. Marie. Members are encouraged to attend.
Members! Membership is an ongoing issue. An auxiliary cannot function unless the number of members grows. As members retire, there has to be someone to step in.
You can join by stopping by the HELPP Lottery\Tuck Cart from Monday to Friday (11 am to 1 pm) or by calling membership chairperson Leona Sylvester at 705-368-1709. There are also forms in the box on the wall near the Tuck Cart room door.
It’s time to join, time to hand over $2, time to keep the Auxiliary strong so that the work can continue for another 71 years. Consider what you can do for others.
We invite you to visit us and “like us” on Facebook. You can view pictures and read comments about Auxiliary activities.
The MHC Auxiliary extends best wishes to you for a happy, healthy 2016. Thank you for your continued support.