by Julie Williams
September signifies back to school and routine. For Stouffville Pharmasave, it’s time to play host at their annual barbeque and welcome the community to help raise funds for Markham Stouffville Hospital (MSH).
“There are 72 silent auction items including Blue Jay tickets, Wonderland passes, Fitbits and themed gift baskets,” said store manager, Robin Roy, who has worked at the Stouffville Pharmasave since 2006.
M&M Food Market served up the burgers and hot dogs while Stouffville firefighters welcomed kids to tour the fire truck. A 2019 Jetta was up for grabs in the MSH Foundation Raffle of Hope.
After 11 years of fundraising, owner and pharmacist Nayan Patel estimates the event has raised about $20,000 for charities, with the last nine years’ proceeds going to Markham Stouffville Hospital.
“We all benefit from the hospital,” he said. “All monies raised will come back to us as, at some point in our lives, we (the community) will need the services of the hospital.”
Patel is no stranger to giving back to the community. In 2015, he was the first Stouffville recipient to be recognized in Portraits of Giving, which recognizes and celebrates York Region individuals who exemplify social responsibility through giving. He was so impressed that every year afterward he’s sponsored the Stouffville honouree for Gifts of Giving.
Raffle tickets can still be purchased for a chance to win the brand-new Jetta. Tickets are $20 each, three for $50 or seven for $100. Proceeds from the raffle sales will help support the MSH oncology program. Visit raffleofhope.info.
Main photo: Plenty of happy Pharmasave staff were on hand at their 11th annual barbeque event. Back row (l-r): Lara, Sara, Shivy and owner/pharmacist Nayan Patel. Front row: Christine, Robin, Nicole and Rakhi. Julie Williams photos
