For Immediate Release • November 23, 2022
Beloved Festival of Trees Fundraiser Returns With Great JOY! And Breaks A Live Tree Auction Record!
Fort McMurray, Alberta – This past weekend, over 175 sponsors, 300 volunteers and 8,500 guests came together to kick-off theholiday season at the 33rd annual Festival of Trees and raise an astounding $755,000 for regional healthcare initiatives!
The three-day Festival included Ugly Christmas Sweater Party, Festival of Trees Gala, Christmas Family Fun with Santa,Daddy Daughter Sugar Plum Fairy Ball and weekend-long Santa’s Workshop, Winter Wonderland tree viewing and local entertainment. Every space and every event were delightful!
The Health Foundation was thrilled to have the community back in-person for the weekend of seasonal celebrations as Festival had been held virtually the past two years.
“We are so grateful to our many sponsors, donors, ticket purchasers, silent and live auction donors and purchasers, guests and volunteers who supported Festival of Trees this past weekend. The return to a live event really brought out a terrific response from sponsors and the trees were amazing. Many were filled with trips and gifts and gifts cards to local businesses. Most businesses in the region were involved in some capacity with gifts of service, gift cards on trees and in gift baskets and raffles. Festival brings out everyone’s desire to celebrate, share the joy of the season, and support healthcare,” said Cindy Amerongen, Executive Director of the Health Foundation.
“All of the trees and packages were outstanding, and the auction bidding was heated,” continued Amerongen. “The SMS and Fort McMurray First Nation Group of Companies tree featuring professional sports games in Fort Lauderdale went to two high bidders – raising $64,000. The highlight of the night was the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Association tree which broke all previous high tree records. The tree was purchased by Dave Tuccaro, Tuccaro Group, Andrew Rosser, Suncor, and Chief Mel Grandjamb, Fort McKay First Nation. Each of the bidders contributed $40,000 to raise a whopping $120,000 on the NAABA tree which was the highest amount ever contributed for a single tree. The Health Foundation is absolutely honored to have extraordinary guests and partners attend the Gala and support our healthcare mission.”
In the Santa’s Workshop hundreds of families visited the Teddy Bear Workshop, cooking decorating, children’s gift shop and other craft stations. This was the busiest year ever for the Workshop area and we were very pleased to see so many happy children enjoying the activities. Winter Wonderland also saw a record number of visitors to hear and see the fabulous entertainers, dancers, and storytellers, and to view the trees, purchase raffle tickets, and shop the silent auction. Buddy the Elf made a special appearance and Santa and Mrs. Claus kicked off their Christmas visits to the region.
“A sense of joy and wonder was evident in everyone’s faces,” said Nelson Barbosa, Past Chair of the Health Foundation. “Many people are new to Festival and had no idea what to expect. Returning and new guests alike shared how inspired they felt being together and focusing on a cause that affects all of us in the region.”
Over the past 33 years, the Festival of Trees has raised almost $11 million (net after all expenses) for regional healthcare initiatives, with over 35,000 volunteer hours invested by thousands of community members. Generations of families have volunteered to make this event special for others as it is truly a meaningful way to give back to the community.
On behalf of the Health Foundation Board and staff – thank you to everyone who participated at the 2022 Festival of Trees. Together we are making an impact by funding healthcare in our region and sharing the joy of the season.
