The Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation is excited to offer a fun opportunity for the community to connect with seniors in a unique way. A twist on the age-old Halloween tradition that is more about brightening than frightening, CARVE participants will be gifting their creations to the Foundation who will then deliver the pumpkins to Cumberland Lodge, Glacier View Lodge, The Views at St. Joseph’s, and to clients’ homes through Island Health’s Home Care Support Services.

Sponsored by Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC, registration is free and carving is done from the comfort of home. Pre-registration online is required as display space is limited. Participants are asked to drop off their carved pumpkins on October 24th to a convenient location that will be emailed upon registration. Organizers recommend carving within a day or so of drop-off as their hope is that the pumpkins remain in good shape throughout the display period leading up to Halloween.

While joy is the main objective for both giver and receiver, optional fundraising to support seniors’ care in the Comox Valley is encouraged. Funds raised through CARVE will support important items such as blanket warmers, music therapy, and patient lifts in long-term care.

Our local Thrifty Foods stores have also stepped up in a big way to support healthcare by generously offering a $1 donation for every pumpkin sold at their Comox Valley locations.

“We feel incredibly grateful to have the support of businesses like Thrifty Foods and Brian McLean who show how much they care about the community and our collective health by getting behind our initiatives,” states Bill Anglin, President of the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation.

“It’s been a challenging time for the automobile industry, but also a time that has magnified the importance of local healthcare. We love when we can help. It means a lot to us that this project will lift spirits for all involved,” says Rod McLean, General Manager of Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC.

Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation raises funds to enhance healthcare in our community, focusing on three interconnected areas of healthcare delivery: acute care at the Comox Valley Hospital, Island Health delivered community healthcare, and non-profit long-term care homes in our region. Donations to these areas support care for everyone in our community. For more information or to register, visit the CARVE webpage.

Originally published in the Comox Valley Record.