A fundraiser aimed at supporting Hospice of Pella grew once again this year.

Pella Regional Health Center Community Foundation Director Jesse Underwood tells KNIA/KRLS News 280 people raised more than $135,000 to directly impact hospice programs and offset operational losses the hospital incurs to maintain a high level of care in the program.

“This gala event really provides us an opportunity to make a difference for the families that utilize this service,” Underwood says.

He says this year they were able to raise funds to replace an aging van used in a variety of ways by hospice volunteers and patients.

“At this event we had a fund a need, and that need was meet by the loving hearts of the people that were there in attendance,” he says.

Manager of Hospice Karol Watson says Pella Regional aims to provide great hospice care, and the February 18th Hearts for Hospice event allows them to continue their mission.

“I think Pella Regional Health Center starts at the cradle and goes to the grave, so we are there at the end to give support,” she says.

Hear more about this year’s Hearts for Hospice on Let’s Talk Pella.