Virtual Fraser Valley Grand Gala raises $67K for health care

The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation (FVHCF) recently raised $67,000 through its virtual Grand Gala.

The second annual event, held Nov. 20 and presented by Snowcrest Foods Ltd., replaced the in-person gala that was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guests who purchased tickets received a “Gala in a Box,” which included a gift card, winter wonderland-themed masks, chocolates, sparkling wine and more. They then tuned in for the virtual event, hosted by Trevor McDonald.

The money raised supports the greatest needs at Abbotsford Regional, Mission Memorial, Chilliwack General, and Fraser Canyon hospitals.

“As always, we are blown away by everyone’s understanding and willingness to still support this event, despite it not being in person this year,” said Liz Harris, executive director of the FVHCF.

Harris said funds from the Grand Gala will help the foundation in achieving its goal to raise $3.5 million for better health care in local communities, including lab upgrades and a CT feasibility study in Mission, the purchase of a radiographic fluoroscopic unit in Chilliwack, a cardiac transport machine for the Hope ER, and new equipment for the ER expansion in Abbotsford.