Light Up the Runway fundraiser to support local hospice

July 17, 2014 · 0 Comments

The Brampton Flight Centre (BFC) and Bethell Hospice Foundation are joining forces in the first-ever Light Up the Runway Walk Aug. 7 to help raise awareness and funds for the hospice facility in Inglewood.
Bethell Hospice is the only residential hospice serving the Caledon, Brampton, Dufferin County and west Woodbridge areas, at no cost to residents, program participants or their families. Alongside many services, such as bereavement and grief counselling, the Hospice offers palliative and hospice care in a compassionate and person-centred environment.
“This is the first time we’ve opened up our runway for a charity fundraiser,” observed BFC Controller Daphne Parsons. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for our staff, volunteers and local communities to rally together on such an important issue. The need for quality end-of-life care in our communities will continue to grow as a result of not only aging but illness and life-changing accidents. By supporting Bethell Hospice, we’re ensuring that our families, friends and neighbours who can no longer be cared for at home have access to a safe and comfortable place to live out the rest of their lives with dignity.”
Light Up the Runway Walk will help contribute to the 40 per cent of funds Bethell Hospice Foundation raises annually through the generosity of individual donors and community events to maintain its program and services. The remainder of Bethell Hospice funding comes from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care through the area Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) and Central West Community Care Access Centre (CCAC).
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Brampton Flight Centre and are grateful for their participation,” commented Bethell Hospice Foundation Fundraising Manager Julie Hymers. “Our organization relies largely on the generous spirit and collaboration of the communities we serve to carry out our work. This same spirit is at the root of the kind of meaningful care we provide to respond to the needs, preferences and wishes of people in the final stages of their life, while supporting their families.”
All residents are welcome to participate in the fundraiser. A registration of $15 is required and participants are asked to raise a minimum of $30. Walkers can also purchase a commemorative candle for $25 to help light up the runway and pay tribute to someone they know or remember. All proceeds raised will go towards Bethell Hospice.
Those who can’t participate in the walk can still support the Hospice by pledging someone already registered online as a walker.
Young people are also encouraged to get involved. Participants aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult, while those between 15 to 18 years, must present a signed waiver by a consenting adult.
Mayor Marolyn Morrison is expected to be on hand for the start.
To register for the Light Up the Runway Walk, make a pledge to an already registered walker or get tips for a successful walk, visit www.bramptonflightcentre.com/community/light-runway-walk/
To learn more about Bethell Hospice Foundation, visit www.bethellhospice.org/?page=home