The Festival of Trees Funds Tallied

The 2021 Festival of Trees is in the books and the outcome was wonderful. Through ticket sales in the hospital and online Bayhealth was able to raise $10,117.  Although not the largest amount ever raised, it did surpass the goal of $10,000. Along with the 137 trees that were raffled off, wreaths were added to the festivities this season. The Festival of Trees serves as the centerpiece for the holidays at Bayhealth and is an amazing fundraising event. All proceeds raised support the Employee Assistance Fund, which helps employees who have financial needs throughout the year.

The trees are decorated by the various departments the week of Thanksgiving. Ticket sales begin the Friday after Thanksgiving and are sold until the week of Christmas. The comradery brought about from this festival is wonderful for all Bayhealth employees as well as the community. People travel from far and wide to be a part of this magical tradition. Tickets are purchased online from families in Maryland, New Jersey and as far away as Kentucky. One of this year’s winners was Tracy Nelson from Louisville, Kentucky. When Ms. Nelson was called to let her know she had won a tree she said she enjoyed seeing the trees online and it was fast becoming one of her holiday traditions. 

There are several departments who help with the Festival of Trees. Volunteer Services, Plant Operations, the Community Pharmacy, the Bayhealth Foundation, Marketing Communications and Patient Advocacy all play a vital part in the event’s success.

The Foundation receives donations throughout the year for the Employee Assistance Fund.  You don’t have to wait for the holidays to donate to the fund. Visit Bayhealth.org/Foundation to learn more about the Bayhealth Foundation and giving opportunities. The Bayhealth Foundation can be reach by calling (302) 744-7015 or by emailing Foundation@bayhealth.org.