The Thank You for Caring Christmas Tea next month will reach an impressive fundraising milestone 鈥� $500,000.
This event is organized by the Thank You for Caring Society, a local non-profit volunteer group that over the past decade, has raised more than $460,000. It is a registered charity that will pass the half million dollar mark this holiday season.
"After the tea we then decide where the money will go," explained Diane Fox, one of the Thank You for Caring Society board. "Of course, the 91原创 Christmas Bureau is very important to us and our biggest recipient. The last few years supporting organizations that offer food for 91原创s families (all the communities within 91原创) in need has been a priority, but in previous years we have given to supporting youth, mental health, our hospital, and more. Every year we review our selections to make sure we are making good choices for our community."
The 2023 tea proceeds were donated to the 91原创 Christmas Bureau, the Starfish Backpack program, the 91原创 Youth Hub, 91原创 Lodge, and 91原创 Meals on Wheels. Local businesses sponsor the tea so more money goes to help people in the community.
The tea can accommodate more than 400 guests who enjoy an afternoon of entertainment, high tea, a silent auction, 50/50 draw, and socializing. Attendees typically use it as an opportunity to get dressed up and fascinators are common. Alyssa Nelson, who led Christmas carols and performed ABBA classics last year, will be the entertainer this year.
The 2024 tea will be on Sunday, Nov. 24, in the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre ballroom from 1 to 4 p.m., and tickets are already on sale. A single ticket costs $50 while a table of 10 goes for $500. with a link in the group's thankyouforcaringsociety.com. People interested in attending may want to get their tickets as soon as possible, because the event sells out fast.
"Tickets sales are going well, but there still are tickets available," Fox said.
The event started in 2012 by the Debbie Froese and Charlene Fassbender, who were the wives of the then mayors of 91原创 Township and City as a fundraiser to help the 91原创 Christmas Bureau. It was held at the Fort 91原创 Golf Course and proved so popular that organizers realized they needed a larger venue. Since then, it's been held at the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre ballroom.
Fox said there are several reasons why the event remains so popular even after more than a decade.
"It's fun and ticket prices are very reasonable," she noted. "It is a great time to gather with friends and family. Our guests care about 91原创 and its families. Christmas shopping at the silent auction is fun. The food is awesome, and dressing up with a fascinator or hat is fun for many of our guests."
