20th Annual Give a Little Life Day Raises Urgent Funds for Healthcare

UPDATE: The 20th Annual Give a Little Life Day has just concluded in Prince Albert, drawing overwhelming community support for local healthcare. Held at Mann Northway on December 1, 2023, this urgent fundraiser saw an impressive turnout as residents rallied to support essential medical services at the Victoria Hospital.

The event, characterized by a steady flow of donors and volunteers, featured live broadcasts from all three local radio stations, creating a dynamic atmosphere of unity and purpose. The Boreal Healthcare Foundation described this year’s fundraiser as one of the most critical yet, emphasizing the community’s long-standing commitment to improving healthcare facilities.

Andy Cohen, donor engagement and communications lead for the Foundation, stated, “Give a Little Life Day has been a monumental fundraiser for our community. It is one of the biggest drivers for local dollars to stay in PA and help the Prince Albert area and northern communities investing in local healthcare.”

The fundraiser is particularly vital as it coincides with the ongoing construction of a new acute care tower at the hospital. Cohen highlighted the urgent need for funds to secure advanced medical technology, including an MRI machine—the first of its kind north of Saskatoon—along with basic equipment like chairs and tables.

“This event shows that community support is essential for everything from advanced medical technology to basic equipment,” Cohen added. The response at Mann Northway was a testament to the event’s impact, with vehicles continuously streaming through the donation drive. The presence of local organizations, including the fire department, further showcased the community’s commitment to healthcare.

Among the early donors was the Prince Albert Cosmopolitan Club, represented by treasurer Art Brassard. The club contributed prize money from its football lottery, marking a return to giving after a brief hiatus due to financial constraints. Brassard stated, “Supporting the hospital is part of the club’s work in the community. If you do not do it, someone is going to pay.”

Throughout the day, radio hosts engaged with donors, sharing heartfelt stories and reinforcing the significance of the fundraiser. Owen Pearson, a radio announcer for Power 99, noted the emotional weight of the event. “It has been a very emotional day in a great way, meeting all these great people that have done so much for the community of Prince Albert and around,” he remarked.

Cohen reminded listeners and donors of the personal stakes involved: “We all need local healthcare. Someone across the street from you that you do not ever talk to, they are going to need the hospital. You are going to need the hospital someday too.” He urged the public to consider their loved ones when deciding to contribute.

As the event wrapped up, the overwhelming community spirit and the urgent need for funding for local healthcare echoed throughout Prince Albert. The Give a Little Life Day not only marked a significant milestone in fundraising but also highlighted the critical role community support plays in ensuring accessible healthcare for all.

The success of this year’s event sets a hopeful tone for future initiatives as the community continues to stand together for a cause that affects everyone. Stay tuned for further updates on the impact of donations and ongoing developments at the Victoria Hospital.