GREG JORDAN
PRINCETON — A Christmas tree was lit Tuesday evening at a local hospital to mark the holiday and to celebrate the memory of loved ones.
Now in its fourth year, the Lights of Love Christmas Tree has lights that pay tribute to almost 200 people, said Jessica Stephens, CFRE, of the Princeton Community Hospital Foundation.
The Christmas tree stands in the parking lot of PCH, Stephens said. The holiday project is organized by a group of volunteers chaired by Susie Pace.
“It’s a unique and meaningful way for the community to say they care for a loved one,” Stephens said. “They can do it in honor or in memory, and at the same time say that they support health care.”
Donations place a light on the dedication tree in honor or in remembrance of loved ones, she said.
“I bought a light in honor of my grandmother Alease Robinson and Mr. and Ms. Bailen,” Princeton resident Kathy Kirk said. “The event is such a wonderful way to remember your loved ones and contribute to a worth while cause. This years gifts will be used to purchase infant resuscitative units for labor and delivery at PCH.”
Participation has continued to grow.
“We have a full tree this year, and it was actually Travis Collis who donated his time to decorate the tree,” Stephens said. Collis in known in Mercer County for putting up elaborate Christmas displays.
Guests were invited to have refreshments while they listened to a performance by the Princeton Primary School Choir. The ceremony’s schedule included reading the names of the people honored by this year’s tree.
“We actually have nearly 200 and we also have special recognition that is on display for our veterans,” Stephens said. It is also a special project celebrating the foundation’s 20 years of collaboration with PCH.
This year’s Lights of Love has raised almost $13,000.
“Also this project enables the hospital to continue providing high quality health care, cost-effective health care. This year’s gift will be used to purchase an infant resuscitative unit for labor and delivery.
“This vital equipment assists with routine assessments and resuscitations of newborns should it be necessary,” Stephens said.
“The weather cooperated with a beautiful evening. The community came out in a large number to support a worth while cause,” Mary Sonderman of Princeton said.
People can still donate to the Lights of Love by calling the foundation at 304-487-7586.
Eric DiNovo contributed to this story
