Image: Submitted / Susan Mathies (left to right), Heather Maahs, Terry Thiessen and Á'a:líya (A’aliya) Warbus attend the Night of Hope gala celebration earlier this month at Chilliwack Alliance Church. The event raised $140,000 to enhance addiction recovery services at Ruth and Naomi's in Chilliwack.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Ruth and Naomi's

Ruth and Naomi’s raises over $100K from Night of Hope gala for addiction recovery services in Chilliwack

May 13, 2024 | 10:41 AM

CHILLIWACK — Ruth and Naomi’s established an ambitious six-figure fundraising goal for its annual Night of Hope celebration this year so that it could enhance its addiction recovery services portfolio, which serves as a focal point of hope and healing in Chilliwack.

Not only did the charity treat attendees to an evening filled with laughter and inspiration earlier this month, the Night of Hope event held Friday, May 3 at Chilliwack Alliance Church raised $140,000 to help individuals courageously journey from addiction to a life of recovery and renewal.

“What a night we had!” Ruth and Naomi’s wrote. “Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable event. Your support means the world to us, and together, we made a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The event was sponsored by Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry and Pro-Health Pharmacy. Comedian Cliff Prang, a recognizable face at many Fraser Valley events, entertained attendees from start to finish. ​Guests had the opportunity to bid on incredible items and experiences during the live auction. The Roberts Brothers Trio provided live music, setting the mood for a festive atmosphere.

Ruth and Naomi’s also highlighted compelling testimonies from people who have been transformed by recovery during the fundraising gala.

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“These stories aren’t just inspiring; they’re a testament to the life-changing work happening every day at Ruth & Naomi’s Mission,” Ruth and Naomi’s wrote. “The impact of your support is profound. With each ticket, donation, and shared story, we move closer to our goal of $150,000, enabling us to welcome more individuals into our program. It’s about more than just increasing capacity; it’s about opening doors to new beginnings and brighter futures. Your participation in the Night of Hope Gala is a commitment to change lives. Together, let’s celebrate and support those taking bold steps towards recovery, and expand our ability to walk alongside many more in their journey to healing and happiness.”

Through its residential treatment program, RAN offers a safe haven where individuals courageously journey from addiction to a life of recovery and renewal. ​

Ruth & Naomi’s says it raised over $129,000 from its Night of Hope gala in May 2023, in order to help develop a dental clinic for the many people of Chilliwack who cannot afford or access basic dental care. In a Facebook post on May 11, 2023, Ruth and Naomi’s said the success of the fundraising dinner enabled the organization to move forward with its plans for a dental clinic.

“We are thrilled to be moving forward with this project as the need is great,” Ruth and Naomi’s said on Facebook in May 2023. “Since announcing our dental clinic plans to the community, we have been receiving regular phone calls from people reaching out for help with their oral health and hygiene.”

It subsequently acknowledged the local dental community whose members have assembled in order to move the project forward.

“A special thank you goes out to the local dentists, dental hygienists, and assistants who have come together to create a knowledgeable and professional Advisory Group to propel this project forward,” Ruth and Naomi’s wrote in May 2023. “And, a huge thank you to all of our event sponsors. As more individuals come forward and volunteer their time and expertise, we are confident that we will see more healthy and happy smiles in Chilliwack! Thank you for your continued support of Ruth & Naomi’s Mission and for making an impact on the lives of the individuals that we support. Your donation is instrumental in bringing life transformation to the community of Chilliwack.”

Ruth and Naomi’s first began when founders Ted and Ann Stoker served sandwiches out of the back of their vehicle in 1995. Twenty-nine years later, the registered Canadian charity based in Chilliwack has grown to meet the physical, social and spiritual needs of a growing community by serving over 380 meals a day, supporting men and women in a residential addiction recovery setting, and sustaining low-income families with access to safe, affordable housing alongside security and supports.