Lions chip in for hospital in Richards Landing

The lights lit up on the tree in front of BridgeLink Medical Centre in Richards Landing on Saturday to the delight of community members from across St. Joseph Island and the North Shore.

Plenty of hot chocolate was on hand to warm those gathered at the Matthews Memorial Hospital Association Annual Tree Lighting fundraiser and carol sing.

All funds raised go to the association’s physician recruitment and retention program.

The total raised is not known at this time as donations were still being received that day.

“We are truly blessed to have two full-time physicians with Doctors Beller and Crawford,” said MMHA board chair, Lavera Crack.

Dr. Crawford replaced retired physician, Dr. Lupien.

Crack told those present that some of the money raised will go toward renovation projects within the clinic building as well as the entrance to the clinic such as the outside steps and railing.

Christmas is a difficult time for many who have lost loved ones, friends or family members.

On that note, the St. Joseph Island Lions Club made a presentation to MMHA of $500, an annual donation in memory of past Lions members, 27 to date.