The holiday spirit was evident at the recent Festival of Trees gala and auction, which raised an astounding $323,624. Every dollar goes to support local hospice services and Jessica’s House, a grief support program for children and teens.

“It warms my heart to see how generous our community is for those in need,” said John Sigsbury, president and CEO. “The gala continues to exceed our guests’ expectations with all of the festivities and our guests continue to exceed our expectations with their support. This year, sponsorships were 46 percent of the money raised, which is primarily from local businesses supporting the event.”

The black tie gala was held on Dec. 7 at the Assyrian American Civic Club in Turlock, with a theme of “Fire & Ice.”

Sigsbury said 366 guests bought tickets and were in attendance, and on-site auctions generated an additional $74,982.

“The funds raised that evening are immediately put to work at Jessica’s House. We continue to grow in the number of children and families in our support groups and provide grief services in a safe environment while they heal,” said Erin Nelson, executive director at Jessica’s House.

The two beneficiaries to the event are Jessica’s House and Hospice. In December, Hospice of Emanuel will be acquired by CovenantCare Hospice. CovenantCare Hospice will continue to provide quality care to patients and families as an Evangelical Covenant nonprofit ministry and provide hospice services in our community with the same staff and volunteers as before, just under a new name. It will remain a community supported service and will provide care regardless of one’s ability to pay.

For more information about CovenantCare Hospice call 664-2500. For more information about Jessica’s House, call 250-5395.