Aldergrove residents Dennis Quiring and Alena Buis are once again hosting the annual Plates & Glasses fundraiser for Langley Hospice Society on their property on Saturday, July 6.
The husband and wife team are big supporters of the local hospice society since having experienced first-hand the support hospice offers people after they lose a loved one.
"We had met Shannon [Todd Booth] through my mom. Then unfortunately we lost my mom two Februarys ago. Our family was fortunate to have her spending her last four months at the Langley hospice, where she received the best care anyone could ask for," Quiring shared with The Star.
Coincidentally, Quiring had offered his property to Langley hospice the year before his mother ended up in its care.
"It was such a coincidence to support the hospice, and then have mom go there shortly after," he said.
Todd Booth, executive director of Langley hospice, commended the kindness of Quiring and Buis to host the annual event at their home.
This year, Todd Booth is anticipating up to 200 guests for an afternoon and evening of fine food and drinks with live entertainment.
The family-friendly event features a four-course picnic served plated at pre-set tables by Angie Quaale and her team from Well Seasoned, local fare from Bonetti's Meats, JD Specialty Turkey Farm, 1 Fish 2 Fish, and Driediger Farms.
There will also be a selection from local wineries, craft breweries, and distilleries, plus an ice cream and mocktail bar for kids.
A silent and live auction will be held, and words from guest speaker Sarah Miller, hospice volunteer and former bereavement client.
And as always, the Fraser Valley Potter's Guild will be on site hosting the potter's market as part of the event.
"We love that this event truly shows that, when a community comes together, amazing things happen," Todd Booth commented.
"We see this daily in the work we do in providing grief and bereavement support."
Funds from the event will go towards the adult bereavement program and volunteer training, as well as replacing 10 older beds and mattresses at the Doug and Fran MacDonald Langley Hospice Residence.
Tickets are still available online at langleyhospice.ca.
