Annual holiday fundraiser supports local charitable health care
Olympia, Wash. —Providence St. Peter Foundation’s 27th annual Christmas Forest opens Dec. 3 at the Red Lion Hotel in Olympia. The five-day holiday fundraiser showcases a festive display of Christmas trees and wreaths by Thurston County’s finest decorators. Sponsored by Titus-Will Chevrolet-Cadillac-Buick/GMC-Hyundai, the event brings holiday cheer while supporting the Providence mission of providing health care services for those in need. Decorators begin setting up this Saturday, Nov. 29 and will finish on Sunday, Nov. 30.
Local business owners Richard “Mick” Phillips and Marisa Wulff are co-chairing this year’s event. “The excitement is building and we can’t wait to welcome the community to the 2014 Christmas Forest,” says Phillips, who has served on the foundation’s board since 2006. “As we celebrate the season, Christmas Forest reminds us about the important work of Providence, especially the mission to care for the poor and vulnerable in our community.”
This year’s Gala fund-a-need will improve care for those who are vulnerable as they face very complex and serious diseases. One of many mission-driven programs at Providence, a new clinic focusing on palliative care will help relieve pain and suffering, and enhance quality of life for many in our community. Gregg VandeKieft, M.D., medical director for palliative care at Providence St. Peter Hospital, says, “When patients are living with a serious illness, it’s never too soon to be thinking about quality of life, and setting goals for care.” An innovative concept, this new outpatient clinic will take care that has previously been offered only in the hospital and make it accessible to all facing complex health issues.
Christmas Forest is Providence St. Peter Foundation’s largest fund-raising event, generating more than $8.6 million throughout its history. More than 300 community volunteers, 60 local businesses, and hundreds of individuals and professional groups have joined together to create the annual event.
The festivities will include a display of custom decorated trees and wreaths, as well as local entertainment and a holiday gift shop. Special events include Ladies’ Night Out, Silver Bells Breakfast, Kids’ Day, the black-tie Gala Dinner & Auction, and more. A full schedule of events and registration information is available at www.provforest.org.
Public viewing schedule
| Special events schedule*
*Reservations required |
Admission to the public viewing is $6 for adults and $1 for children under 12. On Thursday, Dec. 5, seniors aged 62 and older can attend for just $5.
