The Carman Health Auxiliary was pleased with its past twelve months and wants to grow in 2025.
In 2024, the group held nine regular meetings, with 20 members and an average attendance of 12 people.
“We have one group membership, that being the Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and we were encouraged by the number of new members joining,” said Carman Health Auxiliary secretary Betty Park. “The total number of volunteer hours was 893, and there are six associate members.”
The recent year of 2024 saw the Carman Health Auxiliary celebrate 120 years of service to the community. Celebrations started with ten new members joining, which brought a new burst of energy to the group.
In April of 2024, Midland MLA Lauren Stone, invited the group to the Manitoba Legislature. Stone recognized our volunteerism and years of service in a Private Member’s Statement to the Assembly, which was quite an honour for the group.
“Our Spring Tea was also reinstated in May to celebrate our 120 years,” said Park. “Homestead Co-op assisted as a sponsor. Gwen McClement cut our anniversary cake. A pansy in one of our teacups was a special draw. There was a photo display, and it was a great day.”
Organizing and entering a float in the 2024 Carman Fair Parade was also notable and kept the Auxiliary in the public’s eye.
The Health Auxiliary’s primary fundraiser is the sale of raffle tickets throughout the year. Tickets were sold at the Carman Co-op Farmers Market in August, individually and at the teas.
“We are thankful to the Co-op for allowing a space to sell our tickets. The Fall Tea, still celebrating 120, was also a success. Donations ‘In Memory’ added to our funds, as did donations from the Carman Legion Branch 18 and the local MCC Store.”
The Auxiliary is also replacing the Emergency Room overhead light at the Carman Hospital. The funds are in place, but the light is yet to be installed.
Three bursaries, totaling $1,500, were awarded to Carman Collegiate students entering the healthcare field. The Auxiliary was represented in the community by members attending Healthy Communities and Stakeholders meetings. Minutes of these meetings are forwarded to members as they are received.
The tradition of gifting a baby quilt to a New Year’s baby in Carman continued, with the Public Health Nurse delivering it for the group. Over the holiday season, a carnation was delivered to each patient remaining in the hospital. This, too, has been a long-time tradition.
“We look forward to continuing for another year, and we are grateful for the community support we receive.”
