Skip to content

Annual raffle benefits residents at Poplar Ridge

The annual Poplar Ridge raffle is in its 13th year and has set up in the KBRH lobby weekdays from 8:30am - 1:45pm
37983traildailytimesDSC_4768
Marisa Jimenez has another bevy of donated items availabe for the annual Poplar Ridge Christmas Raffle. Tickets are available in the lobby of the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital.

Marisa Jimenez is at it again.

The Trail extended care volunteer has organized the Poplar Ridge Christmas Raffle for 13 years and has now set up shop in the lobby of Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (KBRH) with raffle tickets available weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 1:45 p.m.

All proceeds are donated into a fund that benefits the Poplar Ridge residents, and so far, she has amassed an impressive array of 77 gift certificates and 72 gifts, ranging from jewelry and local handcrafted quilts, to a sewing machine, bistro set, and numerous gift baskets.

Each year the raffle grows and this year Jimenez could raise up to $5,200 if all the tickets are sold.

Funds are allocated to the facility’s recreation program, and dispersed through the KBRH Foundation’s grant application process.

In the past, money has been used to purchase patio furniture and outdoor comfort measures such as large umbrellas and canopies, however this year a sizable amount was used to support the Pavilion’s music therapy program.

“We have a wonderful music therapist who works through the weeks with our residents,” said Margot Wright,  recreational therapist.

“But without the tremendous support from the community and individuals who donate items and Marisa herself, none of this would be possible.”

Jimenez begins the annual venture in the fall by gathering donations from individuals and businesses in town and once inventoried, the KBRH Foundation forwards the list to BC Lotto, where the tickets are printed.

“This is the most donations I have every had,” said Jimenez. “It’s wonderful how the raffle keeps growing and benefiting the Poplar Ridge residents.”

The raffle draw happens Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. during the extended care wing’s annual Christmas party.

Residents are invited to pick names out of one box to match with a ticket from another, which keeps them busy during the evening.

“Including the residents makes the raffle draw a fun time for all,” she added.