Annual Light Up a Life shows support of Santa Clara Valley Hospice
December 12, 2014
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
There was “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night” and in between remembrances represented by twinkling lights at the 24th Annual Light Up a Life, where each donation helped to light the towering tree at United Water Conservation District that will shine through the holidays.
Each light was illuminated on behalf of the nonprofit Santa Clara Valley Hospice/Home Support Group, which each year uses the proceeds to continue its array of always-free services.
The November 29 event at UWCD, located at the corner of 8th and East Main streets, started with the Isbell Middle School Condor Choir under the direction of Donna Nelson.
Their appearance said Light Up a Life Chairperson Kathy Kemp, “Is so exciting... the chorus is really great,” as well as perfect seasonal entertainment including the traditional red “Claus caps” worn by the singers.
Kemp noted that the Hospice Board of Directors, staff and volunteers as well as “strong community support” allows the organization to continue their service to clients across the Santa Clara River Valley, from Fillmore to East Ventura/Saticoy.
Not only does SCVHHSG offer “All types of things to help people stay home,” by providing free sickroom equipment from beds, and wheelchairs to crutches and walkers as well as other necessities through its loan program but also provides respite care for caregivers.
Hospice offers social worker outreach to determine the needs of those with life-threatening illnesses and their families, but also is starting a caregivers’ support group when those taking care of loved ones can share experiences and encouragement.
Hospice also provides medical appointment transportation, delivers flowers to shut-ins and has regular bereavement counseling among its other always-free services.
Kemp thanked supporters and staff but noted, “The most important group is you... you make contributions in the name of family and friends,” whether those loved in memory or those living that stars are named in honor of, each year making Light Up a Life Hospice’s largest fundraiser.
After the countdown and the tree was filled with sparkling lights and the names of those honored by a light was read by volunteers the crowd sang “Silent Night” to mark the end of the celebration.
Lights are only $10 each per remembrance or recognition and can still be purchased at the Hospice Office, 133 N. Mill St., or by a check sent to SVCHHSG, P.O. Box 365, Santa Paula, CA 93061. Be sure to include the name of the person(s) you are purchasing the light for.
The names of all those remembered and honored are published in the Santa Paula Times.
