Elliot Lake’s St. Joseph’s Hospital fundraiser to replace 54 beds at the hospital is nearing the halfway point, according to hospital foundation fundraiser chairman William Elliott.
The effort was helped by a donation from residents Renata and Andrew Renouf with a cheque for $1,080 given to Elliott.
The couple raised the money from two weekend garage sales where they asked people to make a donation on items the couple had at the sales.
Foundation member Linda Collett said the donation was greatly appreciated.
“The Renouf’s hosted a garage sale on Saturday, August 7 and Saturday, August 14 and generously donated the proceeds to go towards the hospital bed fundraiser,” Collett said. “The Renouf’s would like to thank the citizens of Elliot Lake who came out and supported the garage sale and were grateful for the many donations received across Ontario from as far away as Toronto, King City, Barrie, Erin, and Spragge.”
Renata Renouf indicated the items in the sale were not pre-priced, and that people just had to make a donation, she said of the effort.
“She was especially thankful for the support she received locally. The Renouf's have only been in Elliot Lake for 10 years, but Renata says this is ‘home’ which is why she was anxious to help out,” Elliott said.
The bed fundraiser was launched in October last year to replace 54 beds at St. Joseph’s and it is hoped the $324,000 replacement cost to cover each of $6,000 beds will be covered by donations large and small. The beds were last replaced 15 years ago.
All those donating will receive a charitable receipt which is tax deductible.
“We are likely getting close to the half-way point now,” Elliott said and pointed to the Foundation’s monthly 50/50 draw which raises money for Foundation projects and gives a ticket holder a chance to win cash. “Support for the 50/50 has been great, and people are reminded that that is an easy way to support the Foundation and also possibly win some cash.”
August ticket sales are underway. Tickets go on sale at the beginning of each month with the draw expected to continue into early next year. They can be bought at the foundation's Facebook page or by visiting the website.