Tree lighting campaign adds to Matthews Memorial coffers (8 photos)

Over $5,000 will be added to the Matthews Memorial Hospital Association coffers as a result of its final fundraising campaign of the year.

The Annual Tree Lighting campaign closed recently and generated higher-than-expected funds.

Among the 25 folks who gathered in front of BridgeLink Medical Centre and braved the bone chilling temperatures included six of the nine board members as well as community residents to witness the tree lighting followed by the singing of a number of classic Christmas carols. 

A donation of $5 per bulb saw more than that donated from some area residents. The donation could be made by season's greetings, in memoriam or by donation. 

Board members are currently in the process of compiling a list of the countless donors, for their generous support and the list of names will be sent to area media.

A letter distributed to households throughout the catchment area from Echo Bay to Bruce Mines said, "A donation to your Community Hospital is an investment  in quality care for you and your family.

"Generous donations from many individuals and the Municipalities, along with fundraising events enable us (MMHA) to have continued high quality medical care."

BridgeLink Medical Centre was built in 1998 and is in need of upgrades. Priorities include a heating system, new windows, improved insulation, new mats and an air conditioning system.

Projects completed in 2017 included the installation of an automatic door opener to the doctor's office, a new storage building and elevator repairs required by Technical Safety Standards Act.

The letter also said the association needs long term stable funding to maintain the North Shore Health Network Matthews Site Hospital and BridgeLink thereby keeping our doctors.

The Annual General Meeting and election of the Board of Matthews Memorial Hospital Association is Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018, at 10 a.m. in Laird Hall for coffee and muffins followed by the Annual meeting which begins at 10:30 a.m.

"On behalf the Matthews Memorial Hospital Association board, we wish you a happy and healthy New Year," said Chair Lavera Crack.