The 2024 Candlelighters Auction wrapped up last week (April 10) bringing in just over $50,000 to go towards supporting families dealing with childhood cancer.
Board chair, Naomi Fehr, shares she is once again overwhelmed by the support the Pembina Valley has shown.
“We had over 800 items donated. We had just over 900 people [bidding] in the group. We are just blown away by the support that we get from the Pembina Valley area, especially Altona, Carman, Winkler, Morden and surrounding areas. We are now reaching further into Winnipeg, Steinbach, Portage and places like that, but we feel that the Pembina Valley carries us, and we couldn't be more grateful. “
Fehr explains how the funds raised will be helping families dealing with childhood cancer.
"We have approximately 6 events per year where we have these families join us. They can get to know each other and build friendships and just get support from each other. Every Thursday, the parents staying on the [cancer] ward with their child get a hot supper. [When the family gets diagnosed] we send them a care package which includes a blanket, a $500.00 gift card, and a resource sheet.”
The Candlelighters have seen the families be lifted by the support shown.
"We receive so many messages of just how much it has uplifted them. Just to know that there's somebody out there that understands and cares about what they're going through, and they can come to us for help, and if we can't provide the help that they're after, we look for other resources where they can go get that help. “
As the needs grow for these families, the Candlelighters board of directors has been in discussion about furthering fundraising efforts. It has been decided that rather than cutting programs, a second auction will take place in September.
"This auction will be specifically for desserts and meals. We're excited to see what that will bring in.”
Learn more about the Manitoba Candlelighters, and about Letty (pictured above), here.
Click below for the full interview with Connie Bailey.