The numbers are in, and the second annual hog roast in support of South Central Cancer Resource (SCCR) turned out bigger and better, just as organizers had hoped.
Around 145 people crowded into the Commons Barn in Neubergthal for the June 21st event which featured a pulled pork dinner and all the fixings, live music courtesy The Pylons and the chance to go home with some big-ticket silent auction and raffle prizes.
"It was an amazing event. Best food, best band and the best evening ever!" exclaimed Guy Mullen, a member of the Altona Elks which helped organize the fund raiser along with Marlin Fehr (The Hogman) who dedicated many hours to cooking 18 pork butts for the meal.
In the end, $13,334 was raised.
$9,284 of that came from ticket sales, the silent auction and raffle. An extra $4,000 was generated through personal donations made at the event, where SCCR representatives were present to raise awareness of the organization and how money from the evening would benefit those in their cancer journeys.
"The auction prizes were the best ever and we thank all the donors from the bottom of our hearts for making lives better for all cancer patients in our area," added Mullen. "Thank you so very much."
"We are truly overwhelmed by the incredible support shown at our cancer care fundraiser," added Marlin Fehr. "The turnout was beyond our expectations, and we couldn’t be more grateful to everyone who came out to contribute. It’s inspiring to see so many people come together for such an important cause, demonstrating compassion and dedication to making a difference. Your generosity, whether through attendance, donations, or spreading the word, will have a profound impact on those affected by cancer. Thank you to each and every one of you for making this event a success!"
"We are deeply grateful to the Altona Elks for their generous support of our clients and their families facing cancer," said Andrea Smith, SCCR Outreach Coordinator, in a statement to PembinaValleyOnline following last week's cheque presentation.
She explained, support like this is absolutely vital, noting smaller, community-driven events like the hog roast, truly sustain the heart of SCCR.
"These events not only raise essential funds, but they also build awareness and a strong sense of local support. Every dollar raised goes directly to helping individuals and families facing cancer right here in our community."
"The costs associated with cancer treatment go far beyond medical bills," added Smith. "Just imagine the burden of driving to Winnipeg 30 days in a row for radiation therapy — not to mention the additional trips for blood work, doctor visits, and sometimes hotel stays when driving back and forth isn’t possible. For many families in our region, these expenses are overwhelming, especially when combined with the ongoing need to pay for groceries, utilities, and housing."
In 2024, SCCR spent just over $175,000 transporting cancer clients and their families
"That’s why support from organizations like the Altona Elks is absolutely vital. Their commitment helps us continue offering the services and support our clients rely on. We are so thankful for all they do for SCCR and look forward to a continued partnership for many years to come," said Smith.
Fehr added, organizers are incredibly grateful to those who have supported the event, helping to grow it through increased ticket sales, encouragement and generous support.
"Looking ahead, we are excited to announce plans for next year’s fundraiser, which will be held at a larger venue to accommodate even more attendees," he said. "Our hope is to build on this momentum and continue raising awareness and vital support for cancer care in our community."
