The Portage District General Hospital Foundation is once again rallying the community for a cause with its highly anticipated annual gala and online auction. The gala, now sold out, is set to bring a masquerade-themed evening to life, while the online auction, which went live Friday October 14, offers a chance for everyone to get involved.
“This is our fourth online auction, and it’s become such an exciting part of the event,” said Tara Pettinger, Executive Director of the Portage Hospital Foundation. “It just allows more of the community to feel like they’re involved. It runs for two weeks, and there’s a wide range of items, and bidding just makes it really fun.”
The auction features everything from car washes and home essentials to big-ticket items. With the holidays approaching, Pettinger noted it’s also a great chance to find gifts that give back. “Thanks to the amazing donors, we have so many items on there,” she said. “Take your time, scroll through them, throw in your bids, be part of this amazing event.”
Funds raised go directly toward enhancing patient care and facilities at the hospital. “We’ve done everything from deluxe chemotherapy and dialysis chairs to improving the palliative patio that overlooks the lake,” Pettinger said. “It’s about creating a more comfortable and dignified experience for patients.”
This year’s gala theme is masquerade, adding an element of glamour and intrigue to the evening. “I always say it’s like planning a wedding every year,” Pettinger laughed. “We try to make it a little bit different but keep the core of what people love.”
Although tickets to the gala are sold out, the online auction remains open to everyone.
“Just go to portagehospitalfoundation.ca or check the link in our Instagram bio,” Pettinger explained. “And don’t forget, anything you bid over fair market value, you get a tax receipt for.”
With construction on the new hospital nearing its final stages, the excitement in the community is building, and so is the impact of events like this. “It’s just so exciting,” said Pettinger. “We’re getting close to key turnover, and things are moving fast.”
The online auction is live, and bidding closes Friday October 24.
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