The Ste Anne Hospital Fund is still finding ways to fundraise.

Executive Director Natacha Penner says they opted for a virtual gala and 50/50 draw to replace their regular annual events.

“We normally do a health walk in spring and a lobster gala in the fall, but couldn’t because of the pandemic,” explains Penner, “so we’re going to be doing a virtual gala on October the 17th and that’s the night we’re going to do the grand prize draw for the 50/50.”

Penner says the gala will consist of interviews with doctors and people in the community explaining how the funds are used and what it means to them. In addition, there will be musical performances by musician Guy Chaput and fiddler Michael Audette.

“I think one of the biggest aspects that’s super important to the community is the fact that it’s a bilingual hospital,” offers Penner, “and there are a lot of members in the community, especially the older generation, that doesn’t speak English.”

Penner also mentions the hospital's heliport which offers another unique resource.

“We have a lot of great facilities in the area and the only reason is because of the community support, and it’s not just Ste Anne,” says Penner. “Everyone steps up in Blumenort, La Broquerie, in Steinbach, and Lorette. I think we are very lucky that the community steps up and supports.”

Penner says that they are also selling boxes of lobster. She adds those that are interested can buy a box of lobster, pick it up at a set time and date, and enjoy it alongside the virtual gala.

"We just kind of wanted to keep that connection going through this year, even if we can't get together in person."