Sheep River Health Trust
The Sheep River Health Trust has revealed the fundraising total from the 12th annual Together We Make a Difference Radiothon.
The event was hosted by the Sheep River Health Trust (SRHT) and The Eagle 100.9 on Thursday, June 19, and it brought in $77,000.
Donations will go right back into the community, with several Foothills-area health and wellness programs to benefit from the funding.
One major shift from previous years was the location, with the event taking place at the Okotoks Health and Wellness Centre.
"We really just wanted people to understand that we take it seriously when you come to urgent care," said Christine Oakes with the SRHT. "Even under the worst circumstances, we can give you a smile and let you know that we've got your back."
Over the course of the day, donors showed up specifically to contribute to the radiothon, but many passersby also donated after learning about the cause.
"When you give to the Sheep River Health Trust... you can see where your dollars go, and they go right into health care in the community," said Oakes.
One highlight for the Health Trust this year was increased awareness of their own in-house programs, including a music enrichment program for adult day support, a school breakfast program across 12 schools, and spiritual care services at Oilfields General Hospital.
This year's radiothon funding will also contribute to projects like Orenda Society’s Curriculum for Social-Emotional and Mental Well-being, and upcoming upgrades to diagnostic imaging equipment in Diamond Valley's Foothills Family Medical Centre.
"It's not always glamorous equipment, but we really need it," said the SRHT's executive director, Andrea Mitchell.
In addition to the main broadcast location in Okotoks, a satellite location was set up at the Rona in Diamond Valley, and included a barbecue and donation station that raised $6,400 on its own.
"Lots of people come by just for a hot dog, but lots of people come by to support as well," Mitchell said. "People come and want to spend $5, then realize it's a fundraising event and ask, 'Where can I give you $200?'"
On top of all the donors, the Health Trust credits long-time sponsors and community volunteers for making the day a success.
Looking ahead, the organization is preparing for fall and winter events, including a volunteer-supported casino fundraiser on September 18 and 19 that could bring in another $50,000 for local medical equipment, and their annual Photos With Santa campaign.