One of the most tragic occurrences in Sicamous’ recent history has been met with what is likely the most successful fundraising effort ever in the community.
On Friday night, an auction/dinner/dance fundraiser was held at the legion to support Kara Wagner, who recently lost her family and home in a fire.
Brianna LaRoy, a friend of Wagner’s and one of the event’s organizers, was still in awe Monday morning by the success of the auction, which raised $33,000.
“We did donations for food, people were coming up to me giving me donations, plus what we made from the silent and live auction,” says LaRoy. “And then also, the legion and the ladies auxiliary gave cheques as well, so it was absolutely fantastic.”
The auction puts the total raised for Wagner at more than $48,000, and that’s excluding what’s been donated to funds set up at the TD Bank and the Salmon Arm Savings and Credit Union. Donations are still being accepted at the banks and through the Facebook page, Support Kara Wagner.
Purchases made on Thursday, Jan. 26 at the United Church Thrift Shop, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., will also go to help Wagner.