Abbotsford, BC – Sevenoaks Shopping Centre’s Merry and Bright was a nearly packed house as Abbotsford gathered to enjoy breakfast, festive entertainment and raise funds for Youth mental health programming and Mentorship programs. December 6th marked the inaugural Christmas fundraising event “It’s a Wonderful Breakfast” hosted by the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford.
“We are overcome by the generosity and turn out at our first Breakfast in Abbotsford” beamed Liz Harris. “We have held successful breakfast events in Chilliwack for the last 3 years and are happy with how well Abbotsford as reacted to this event. Together we rose over $15,000 for local youth wellness.
While guests enjoyed a breakfast buffet they were entertained by Clifford the Elf (Cliff Prang) who was the MC for the Breakfast and performances by FreeStyle Dance Center and Triumph Acrobatic Arts. Jim Sinclair, Fraser Health Board Chair spoke to the crowd about what is happening in healthcare while Dr. Elizabeth Watt, extolled the benefits of the new Foundry that offers young people ages 12-24 health and wellness resources in Abbotsford.
The best received special guest, was the man himself Santa. “Everyone here today is now on the NICE list” Santa laughed as he made his way to back to the North Pole.
The Foundation also hosted a Toy & Toiletry Drive at the breakfast. Toys collected will go to the Pediatric Unit playrooms; making a child’s stay in the hospital a more pleasant experience. Toiletries and other comfort items collected will help fill the needs of the Fraser East mental health programs and other patients in need. To youth participating in mental health programs the small things count; Nail polish, shaving kits, puzzles and other items can lift spirits and make a positive impact.
“We could not make this event happen without all of our sponsors and participants, it is with a full heart I would like to acknowledge Snowcrest Foods for coming onboard as our Angel Sponsor” said Harris. “It was a wonderful opportunity to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Fraser Valley to help more of the local youth.”
The Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation continues to fund vital equipment and programs for Abbotsford Regional Hospital; all funds raised in Abbotsford support Abbotsford. For More information about the other upcoming events, please visit www.fvhcf.ca
