Hospice Huntsville has launched its 13th annual Purple Boot Campaign to raise awareness and funds for hospice and palliative care in the region.
From March 13 to May 31, more than 40 purple boots will be placed at businesses and organizations throughout Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Port Sydney, and the Almaguin Highlands. Community members can donate cash directly into the boots or scan a QR code to contribute online.
Melissa Polischuk, fund development and public relations coordinator for Hospice Huntsville, said the campaign helps spread awareness and start conversations about hospice and the services they provide.
“It’s a fun way to raise public awareness for hospice and palliative care within our community, because it’s not always a subject that people like talking about,” she said. “These purple boots have become iconic. We’re very fortunate that we have been able to grow the campaign.”
According to Polischuk, 50 per cent of the hospice’s operating costs are covered by government funding. The remaining 50 per cent, roughly $54,000 a month, must be generated through fundraising efforts to ensure services remain free to the community.
“The funds are so critical, we need to have fundraising campaigns like this year after year in order to keep our doors open,” she said.
Proceeds from the campaign will go towards the 17th annual Hike for Hospice’s $60,000 goal, which takes place on May 3 at Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve. The event will include activities, live music, and a barbeque hosted by the Dwight Lions Club.
“These events are a way to celebrate someone’s life, it’s so important to honour that,” Polischuk said.
For more information, visit hospicehuntsville.com.
