A large group of community supporters from a wee tot of only three-weeks-old to the more mature residents gathered in front of BridgeLink Medical Centre for the Annual Matthews Memorial Hospital Association Tree Lighting and Caroling campaign.
The weather, though damp may have played a role in the impressive turnout. In years past, supporters dealt with bone-chilling temperatures.
Residents from the catchment area of St. Joseph Island and the North Shore enjoyed hot chocolate and a variety of baked goods during a nearly one-hour gathering. A number of classic Christmas songs were led by a number of church choir members.
Each $5 donation lights a bulb on its festive tree located in front of BridgeLink Medical Centre and turned on during the event.
Forms were distributed for the past few weeks at various locations from businesses to municipal offices throughout the catchment area.
Residents had the options of making a donation, sending greetings, offering Best Wishes, saying Happy New Year or donating In Memorium of friends, neighbours or loved ones.
Matthews Memorial Hospital Association Annual General Meeting is slated for Jan. 11, 2020 at the Jocelyn Community Hall with refreshments at 10 a.m. and the election of the board of directors meeting beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Just over $3,000 was raised by the event.