For the City Times

STEVENS POINT – Ascension St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation will host its annual fall fundraiser, HouseCall, on Nov. 14.

Previously known as the Gala for Giving, the foundation had to proactively adapt to an online video fundraiser in response to the pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic may have changed how we fundraise, but it does not change our commitment and mission to serve the most vulnerable in our community,” stated Margo Willard, foundation director.

Donations raised at HouseCall on Nov. 14 will go to support the “Greatest Need Fund” at St. Michael’s Foundation. All donations stay local and support patients, families, and individuals in Portage County who may be struggling to meet basic healthcare needs. Over the past several months, the Greatest Need Fund has been used to provide tablets for patients to use during COVID-19 visitor restrictions, when they are unable to see loved ones in person.

Highlights of HouseCall include an entertainment lineup that will feature Charlie Berens from the “Manitowoc Minute,” a cooking demonstration from Chef Christian Czerwonka of Father Fats Public House, music from The Oxleys and a video from SPASH FCCLA students.

The online event will also feature a virtual silent auction where donors can bid on gift baskets, travel packages, and a “Ride to School on a Fire Truck” experience donated by the Stevens Point Fire Department.

Tickets may be purchased at HouseCall.givesmart.com. For more information, email HouseCallPOCO@gmail.com.