Hospice Tree of Life ceremony is Monday in Marion
A Hospice Tree of Life will be dedicated at 7 p.m. Monday at Central Park in Marion in a lighting ceremony to honor those who are nearing the end of their life and in memory of deceased loved ones.
The brief ceremony will include special music provided by local choral groups. Refreshments will be served afterward at a nearby host church.
The project also raises needed funds for non-profit hospice care.
The tree is decorated with paper ornaments received by gift-givers. Loved ones' names are listed in a book located next to the tree.
"Your gifts help people in Marion County live their final days with dignity and comfort, among family and friends," said Robert Carlton, director of Central Homecare and Hospice.
For the first time, a $50 gift entitles the giver to receive a limited edition wooden heart ornament. The hand-crafted hospice ornament is made of fine wood and hand-painted by volunteers with the Society of Decorative Painters.
Each heart will be personalized with the name of the loved one.
"These hearts are cut, painted, and inscribed by volunteers with a heart for hospice, adding to the special uniqueness of each ornament," Carlton said.
Gifts are welcome throughout the holiday season, with names updated weekly and wooden hearts prepared until Dec. 16.
Call Central Homecare at 1-800-301-9499 to receive a flyer which explains the Tree of Life program. It includes a tear-off portion for sending a suggested $20 donation to have a loved one's name listed in the book. Additional names can be added for $10 each.
The tax deductible gifts may be made payable to The Hospice Tree of Life and sent to Hospice Tree of Life, P0 Box 645, Newton KS 67114.
The tree lighting event is made possible by 12 area businesses. Expenses are covered by the sponsors. All donated dollars go directly to patient care and support for families.
Central Homecare and Hospice serves Marion, McPherson, and Harvey counties.
