Have a Heart radiothon returns next week with $50,000 fundraising goal

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Fort St. John Hospital Foundation is preparing for a major fundraising event to support seniors at Peace Villa Residential Care Facility.

The foundation’s annual “Have a Heart” radiothon, in partnership with 98.5 Move FM, is happening next Thursday, June 13th, at the Home Hardware on 108th Street.

Organizers say the goal for this year’s event is to bring in $50,000 in donations. PETRONAS Canada and Dr. Henry Ma with Accent Dental and Apex Dental will match donations up to $10,000 each.

Last year’s event, also held at Home Hardware, brought in $54,749.99 for the foundation.

According to an announcement at the foundation, the money raised this year will go towards buying “Serene Edge” mattresses for Peace Villa.

The mattresses are capable of inflating and deflating, to help provide comfort, reduce residents’ pressure sores, and reduce the need for staff to turn residents themselves.

“The population of residents at Peace Villa are frail, and some are bedridden,” says Peace Villa Manager for Residential Care Pat Evans. “These factors can lead to pressure sores, causing pain for the residents.”

“These mattresses will offer both preventative and restorative benefits for residents.”

Donations will be collected in person, over the phone, and online. The Have A Heart Radiothon runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the 13th.