COMMUNITY DAY — Brad Johner was one of the entertainers participating in Community Day at St. Paul’s Hospital May 27 in Saskatoon. (Photo by Jacquie Berg)

St. Paul’s celebrates Community Day

By Jacquie Berg

SASKATOON — Hundreds of children, families and neighbours gathered on the front lawn of St. Paul’s Hospital May 27 for an annual Community Day celebration that featured entertainment, a barbecue, games, crafts and tours of emergency vehicles.

An estimated 700 children from surrounding community elementary schools gathered at the Catholic hospital for the day of fun and friendship.

“This is a day for St. Paul’s Hospital to focus on fun with our neighbourhood children,” said Jean Morrison, president and CEO of the hospital. “Community Day has proven an excellent way for St. Paul’s Hospital to welcome people of the local communities into our extended family. This is a wonderful day for both the children and everyone involved.”

This year a number of entertainers donated their time to the event, including Andrea Menard, Double Vision Comedy Magic, Brad Johner, fiddler Karrnnel Sawitsky, and Poetic Poetry. SaskTel’s Mendel Art Caravan was also on hand, along with local artists and Elite DJs.
In addition, MD Ambulance, Saskatoon Police Services and Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services were on site, providing tours of their vehicles.

Approximately 120 volunteers assisted with the event, including staff from St. Paul’s Hospital and other sites in the Saskatoon Health Region, as well as students from Holy Cross High School and community sponsors. The event is sponsored by local organizations and businesses.