Sara and Everly Patterson (MBC Media)
A summer of small donations, sweet treats and community support has added up to a big result for CHEO in Smiths Falls.
The Smiths Falls Dairy Queen raised 5,138.19 for the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario this year, following a summer-long fundraising campaign that culminated with Miracle Treat Day earlier this month.
The campaign included several different ways for customers to contribute. Along with Blizzard sales and a raffle on Miracle Treat Day, the restaurant held a “Round Up” campaign for several weeks through July and August and a “Dip It for Kids” fundraiser earlier in the year.
Smiths Falls Mayor and Councilors Dawn Quinn and Stephen Robinson joined in on the fun
Paula Major, who consults for her family’s Smiths Falls Dairy Queen, said Miracle Treat Day itself received another strong response.
Hundreds of Blizzards went out the door during the annual event, with proceeds from those sales helping support CHEO.
It continues a fundraising tradition that has grown significantly over the years.
The impact behind those dollars was also represented at the restaurant by Sarah Patterson and her daughter Everly.
Everly has received care at CHEO, and Patterson said the hospital has become an important part of their family’s life.
The family helped with the local event, including handing out stickers as customers came through.
Patterson said CHEO’s doctors, nurses and other caregivers are part of a much larger support system surrounding children and their families.
This year’s $5,138.19 total shows that same team effort extended well beyond one day.
From rounding up purchases to buying a Blizzard, Smiths Falls residents spent the summer turning everyday visits to Dairy Queen into support for children and families who rely on CHEO.
