Benefit broadcast raises over $131K for CK Hospice

Hearts Together for CK Hospice hosts Greg Hetherington and Cheryl Johnstone. September 25, 2020. (Photo courtesy of CK Hospice).


The first-ever benefit broadcast to support the Chatham-Kent Hospice has raised over $131,000, however, additional donations are still being accepted.

The Hearts Together for CK Hospice Benefit Broadcast was held on September 24. A program to share information about the Hospice, as well as some live entertainment, was broadcast through YourTV and Facebook Live.

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the generosity and kindness shown by donors in support of our Hospice families. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic and the many restrictions associated with it, Chatham-Kent Hospice continues to provide compassionate care to those at end-of-life and their families,” said Event Chair Randi Bokor Caron. “These funds will be used to ensure Hospice residents remain comfortable and connected to their families at no cost to them.”

The Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation announced plans for the benefit broadcast in July as it was clear typical fundraisers would not be able to run as per usual due to pandemic-related circumstances. The inability to host certain fundraisers has posed as a major obstacle considering the hospice relies heavily on community donations and the annual Benefit Gala, which had to be cancelled this year.

Operational costs to support the Hospice requires $108,000 in donations each month, according to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation.

The Chatham-Kent Hospice has served over 823 families since it opened in April 2016.

The Hearts Together for CK Hospice Benefit Broadcast was made possible through sponsorships from several local businesses such as Victory Lincoln, Battery Boy, Honey Electric, MBI Financial, Schinkel’s Gourmet Meats, Teksavvy, Westhoek Construction, and Programmed Insurance Brokers.