The third annual Christmas Tree Auction at St. Catherine Hospital has a new dimension this year.  We've added wreaths to the auction.  The contest began three years ago when the 12 inch trees ordered to decorate the cafeteria came in and were four foot trees.  At that time we decided to have each department decorate a tree and have a contest for best tree.  After some discussion it was decided to have an auction to raise money for Emmaus House. 

The first year the SCH Associates raised over $2,000 for Emmaus House.  Last year we raised ove r $4,000.  This year the beneficiary of the proceeds of the auction is the Benincasa House,  a  residence operated by SCH for patients'  families and friends who must travel from outside Garden City to accompany loved ones undergoing treatment at St. Catherine Hospital. 

Like any home, Benincasa requires regular upkeep and maintenance.  In an average year between 300 and 400 people stay at Benincasa.  Last year 333 people stayed at the house a total of 1,675 nights. 

This year we have 27 trees and 17 wreaths to auction off.  The bidding on the trees and wreaths will end on December 14th at 3 pm.  The person with the highest bid on each tree will be able to pay for their tree and take it home at that time.  Also, the judges will also announce the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners of the decorating contest.  

The public is invited to visit the St. Catherine Hospital cafeteria to view the beautiful trees and wreaths on display and make a bid on one if they would like to.  The winner of the winning bid will be notified by phone if they are not present at the end of bidding.