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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Niagara Health Foundation Announces the Return of the Celebration of Lights Holiday Campaign, Illuminating Hope for Patients and Families Across Niagara
Niagara Region, November 4, 2025 — The Niagara Health Foundation is proud to announce the return of its annual Celebration of Lights (www.LightsForHealth.com) holiday fundraising campaign, once again supported by Alectra Utilities as the title sponsor. Each year, this cherished campaign brings together communities across Niagara to share warmth, light, and compassion for patients and families spending the holidays in the hospital.
The 2025 campaign celebrates the impact of donors, healthcare workers, and families who together make Niagara’s hospitals a place of care and comfort — especially during the most difficult moments.
This year’s campaign highlights the story of three-year-old Briar and her family, whose lives were forever changed when a series of unexplained bruises led to a diagnosis of Immune Thrombocytopenia. During Briar’s hospital stay, her mother, Roxanne, recalls the profound comfort and reassurance her family found within the Children’s Health Unit at Niagara Health:
“Having a sick kid is the scariest thing in the world, but during our stay, we felt safe and reassured,” Roxanne recalls. “Having the hospital and the resources close to home wasn’t just good for Briar; it impacted our whole family. I think that is true not just for pediatrics — behind each patient is a family.”
Briar’s story embodies the spirit of the Celebration of Lights — to bring light, hope, and healing to every patient and family who needs Niagara Health’s care. Donations to the campaign help fund vital equipment purchases, programs, and spaces that ensure local families can receive exceptional care close to home at Niagara’s hospitals and urgent care centers, just like Briar’s did.
“Every bulb that shines this holiday season represents compassion in action,” said Andrea Scott, President & CEO of the Niagara Health Foundation. “Behind every patient is a family — and thanks to the generosity of our donors, partners, and sponsors, we can make sure that care, comfort, and hope continue to shine brightly across our hospitals.”
Lighting Ceremonies Across Niagara
The Celebration of Lights will once again feature community tree lighting ceremonies across the region, inviting residents to gather and share in the season of giving.
- Niagara Region – November 13 at 5:00 p.m. (Niagara Region Headquarters)
- Niagara Falls – November 15 at 5:15 p.m. (Niagara Falls City Hall, following the Santa Claus Parade)
- St. Catharines – November 19 at 5:00 p.m. (St. Catharines City Hall)
- Welland – November 22 between 6:00–6:30 p.m. (Welland City Hall, following the Santa Claus Parade)
- Thorold – November 25 at 5:30 p.m. (Thorold Credit Union)
Each ceremony will include the illumination of a community tree dedicated to those being celebrated, honoured, and remembered this holiday season.
Community Partners & Sponsors
The Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to Alectra Utilities, the campaign’s title sponsor, and to our tree lighting partners; Niagara Peninsula Energy (Niagara Falls), Welland Hydro (Welland), Thorold BIA (Thorold) and Thorold Community Credit Union for their generous support in helping light up the region.
"Every year, we’re honoured to take part in this incredible initiative that brings light and hope to local families in need across Niagara”, said Brian Bentz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alectra Inc. “Through our AlectraCARES Community Support Program, Alectra is proud to sponsor the Celebration of Lights campaign and support services that bring comfort and care to families throughout the community, lighting the way toward brighter futures for all.”
How the Celebration Supports Local Care
Funds raised through the Celebration of Lights will help support areas of care across Niagara Health, including the Children’s Health Unit, where specialized programs, comforting spaces, and family-centered care help young patients heal close to home. Every contribution helps ensure that Niagara’s hospitals can continue providing exceptional care to children and families throughout the region.
Ways to Support
Donations of all sizes are welcome and can be made at www.LightForHealth.com. Any donation of $50 or more will be recognized with a personalized bulb inscribed with the donor’s chosen name or message, displayed at a Niagara Health site of their choice. Each light serves as a symbol of hope — illuminating the path to healing for patients across Niagara.
Media Contact or To Attend the Tree Lightings:
Chris Green
Vice-President Communications & Community Engagement
Niagara Health Foundation
chris.green@niagarahealth.on.ca / 905-323-3863
Vice-President Communications & Community Engagement
Niagara Health Foundation
chris.green@niagarahealth.on.
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