Special reading of Christmas classic to raise money for refugee sponsorship

By KENDALL KING, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on November 30, 2021.

kking@medicinehatnews.com

Charles Dickens’ beloved story “A Christmas Carol” encourages goodwill and kindness toward others; it’s only fitting this tale be read at Medicine Hat and Area Refugee Team’s holiday fundraising concert on Dec. 16.

The event, titled ‘A Dickens of a Christmas,’ will be held at St. John’s Presbyterian Church. The reading will be performed by members of Medicine Hat Musical Theatre and local community. There will also be live music and carolling.

Spaces are limited so Hatters are encouraged to book seats online at the St. John’s website or Eventbrite. Tickets are free and donations to MHART will be gratefully accepted. All money raised will go toward the sponsorship and reunion of six South Sudanese refugees with their family in Medicine Hat. In total, MHART needs to raise $90,000 to fund the sponsorship. The organization has currently raised 55% of its goal, but hopes to raise the remaining amount quickly, as the refugee camp the six individuals are residing in is scheduled to close in 2022.

“The great thing about Dickens’ story is the miracle of generosity that transforms his heart,” said Rev. Dr. Nancy Cocks, MHART co-founder. “So, we really thought it was a perfect fit for this appeal because we’re hoping for a miracle of generosity for these people who really have no other help but us.”

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the concert will begin at 7:30. The event will be live streamed. Donations can be made at the venue or online, with amounts over $25 eligible for a tax receipt at year end.

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