Strathmore’s Tree of Hope Renamed to Memory Tree for Continued Support

The longstanding Tree of Hope program in Strathmore has been rebranded as the Memory Tree, ensuring its continued support for palliative care at the Strathmore Hospital. Established in 1996, the original initiative raised funds for essential items such as furniture, bedding, and entertainment to enhance the quality of life for patients receiving palliative care.

The Strathmore District Health Foundation and Auxiliary made the decision to rename the program after it was set to be discontinued due to the absence of palliative care rooms needing furnishings. Florence Vander Velde, vice president of the foundation, emphasized the program’s value, stating, “Just because there are no palliative care rooms to furnish anymore…we thought it was too valuable of a program to discontinue.” The Memory Tree will continue to support the purchase of hospital equipment through donations in memory of loved ones.

Community Engagement and Donation Opportunities

This year marks the first time the foundation has directly operated the program. Vander Velde noted that the foundation is focused on raising awareness about the Memory Tree as a continuation of the Tree of Hope. “We got started kind of late on it…we haven’t been out and around too much in order to have our pamphlets anywhere,” she explained. The late start has raised concerns about the program’s fundraising effectiveness this year, but the foundation remains hopeful for continued community support.

The acquisition of the Memory Tree program occurred in early December 2023, and the donation campaign coincides with the Christmas holiday season. While donations can be made year-round, the foundation encourages contributions during this time when memories of family and friends are often at the forefront of people’s minds. “We have a tree placed at the front of the hospital by the admitting desk, and there are little cards with the donor’s name and who they are remembering, and that is placed on the tree,” Vander Velde added.

The Memory Tree campaign will run until January 17, 2024, after which donations will be paused until the next holiday season. Contributions of $20 or more are eligible for income tax receipts. Donations can be made online via [email protected] or in person at the hospital.

The rebranding of the program signifies a commitment to maintaining the support structure for future patients and their families, fostering a sense of community and remembrance during the holiday season. The Strathmore District Health Foundation looks forward to the continued generosity of the public, ensuring that the legacy of caring for patients lives on through the Memory Tree.