Parker, three, released a butterfly to say 鈥渉ello鈥� to her brother in heaven at a butterfly release fundraiser at Krause Berry Farms and Winery Estate on Saturday, Aug. 12.

The annual event is jointly organized by 91原创 Hospice Society and the 91原创 Lodge, both of which also benefit from the proceeds.

Cameron McKay, a volunteer coordinator at hospice, said this is his second year helping organize the event.

鈥淭he event helps raise awareness and funds to benefit both organizations,鈥� McKay explained.

Hospice will allocate the funds to providing palliative and bereavement care and support to meet the growing needs of the children, teens adults, and families they serve. Meanwhile, 91原创 Care Foundation has its portion of money raised earmarked for enriching the lives of the residents served by 91原创 Lodge.

McKay said there were about 400 butterflies available, half of which was sold online prior to the day of the event. The remaining 200 were available to purchase at the farm. All were sold out by 2 p.m.

鈥淭he butterfly gives people a chance to stop and just share a moment in honour of a loved one, and we think the butterfly is a beautiful way of doing that just for what is represents and symbolizes,鈥� McKay said.

Sheoras, six, released a butterfly with her sister and mom.

Hospice volunteer Donna Hudspeth also released one to send a message to her dad.

鈥淗e was always worried about me because I was an only child,鈥� Donna explained, after her butterfly left her hand several minutes later after being let out of its box.

In addition to the actual release of butterflies on Saturday, event organizers also arranged kids activities onsite such as live entertainment, crafts, and face painting.

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