CHARIS Hospice Penang, a non-profit organisation, managed to raise RM250,000 through its Charity Hunt at Setia SPICE Convention Centre recently, exceeding its target of RM200,000.
The event saw 360 enthusiastic hunters come together for a common cause as they participated in two events at the Charity Hunt, namely the Motor Hunt and the Walk Hunt.
Both events featured exciting challenges and obstacles that tested their teamwork and problem-solving skills while navigating through the surrounding vicinity, searching for clues and solving puzzles to complete the challenges, all to raise funds for Charis Hospice Penang.
In the process, they were also educated about free palliative home care services for patients with advanced cancer and other advanced life-threatening illnesses in Penang island, irrespective of race or religion, provided by Charis Hospice since 2004.
Also present at the Charity Hunt were its board of directors chairman Lee Khai, founder and medical director Dr Oo Loo Chan, huntmaster Jay Menon, some staff members and volunteers.
Lee Khai said Charis Hospice was thrilled to surpass its target of raising RM200,000. The hunt, themed “Together We Share & Care” this year, was not held for the last three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This success would not have been possible without the support of our community and we are grateful for their unwavering commitment to our cause,” said Lee Khai, who had estimated that they need a budget of RM850,000 for this year to keep Charis Hospice running, such as salaries for the staff and the professional nurses to support the work.
Dr Oo also expressed her appreciation for the tremendous support received.
“We are grateful to have exceeded our fundraising target, and we would like to thank all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers for their tremendous support.
“The funds raised from this event will enable us to continue providing compassionate care to those with life-limiting illnesses, and the event is an invaluable opportunity to increase awareness of palliative care,” said she said.
The event ended with a prize-giving ceremony, where the top-performing teams were awarded prizes for their efforts.
For more information about Charis Hospice Penang and its services, please visit their website at www.charishospicepenang.org or call +6011-12466757.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix courtesy of Charis Hospice Penang