Virtual fundraising campaign hopes to raise vital funds for healthcare workers

Working on the frontlines as a first responder, nurse, doctor, or in myriad other roles involves providing a high level of care for others while making personal sacrifices.

The challenges of the COVID-19 crisis have put a spotlight on healthcare workers, not only here in BC, but around the world, too, with the 7 pm cheer showing our collective love for several months.

Now, there’s another way to express gratitude and help raise vital funds for health care in our province with High Fives for Health Care. Launched by VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation and running from now through Saturday, November 14, the virtual fundraising campaign allows us to support the health of our community.

Hive Fives for Health Care/VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation

“We know high fiving isn’t in vogue right now, at least in the traditional sense. But with a little creativity and imagination, we can safely ‘redeem’ high fives and cheer on our health care heroes who heroically continue to fight on the front lines of this global pandemic,” said Angela Chapman, President and CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation.

To support High Fives for Health Care, you can make a donation or create a fundraising page. Once you do, you’ll have the option to submit a message to BC healthcare heroes — the people who are providing essential care to patients in hospitals, health care centres, and beyond.

When the pandemic hit, conditions like stroke, cancer, and addiction didn’t disappear. Patients battling these health issues still need access to medical teams equipped with the best tools, technology, and the latest medical knowledge and research.

By participating in the #HealthCareHighFive challenge, you can help ignite much-needed positivity, with donations supporting the urgent needs of our health care system and the medical teams who save lives every single day.

Here are the different ways you can take part:

• Donate in easy denominations of $5
• Start your own fundraising page to see how far your high five goes
• Win weekly prizes (and enter to win a grand prize) when you post your high five on social media using the hashtag #healthcarehighfive

When it comes to your high five, use your imagination to get as creative as possible — in a safe way, of course. Then, use the hashtag and tag five of your friends to join you in spreading positivity.

Hive Fives for Health Care/VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation

To celebrate our healthcare heroes and share inspiring stories of innovation, dedication, and recovery, High Fives for Health Care will culminate in two broadcast events. On November 14, you can tune in to CKNW from 2 to 3 pm and Global TV from 5 to 5:30 pm.

Until then, learn more about how you can get involved with the fundraising campaign here. For all the need-to-know social media contest details, head to vghfoundation.ca/contest.

We’re all in this together, so let’s make it count!

High Fives for Health Care

When: Sunday, October 25 to Saturday, November 14
Where: Throughout BC
Price: Donations start at $5