Community comes together for Clinton Hospital Foundation’s Diamonds and Denim gala

Community members gathered Saturday evening to support local healthcare at the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation's 2026 Biennial Gala, Diamonds & Denim: Elegance with a Twist, one of the foundation's largest fundraising events.

Held every two years, the gala serves as the foundation's signature fundraiser in support of Clinton Public Hospital. This year's event, held June 13 at Libro Hall, aimed to raise nearly $200,000 to fund priority medical equipment purchases and hospital upgrades that will directly benefit patient care.

The evening featured a cocktail reception, dinner, silent and live auctions, and live entertainment by Upside of Maybe.

Healthcare advocates, local businesses, volunteers, and residents came together with a shared commitment to ensuring quality healthcare remains accessible and close to home.

Guests enjoyed an assortment of charcuterie boards and fresh green salads, followed by a main course featuring smoked ham with pineapple mustard glaze, white carnation signature braised beef, sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, herb-roasted potatoes topped with parmesan and fresh scallions, with seasonal vegetables.

Attendees also received a handcrafted cookie made by Quinn Gibson as a token of appreciation for their support of local healthcare.

"This is our major fundraiser," said Darren Stevenson, chair of the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation.

"We do it every other year, and it is a huge, huge support to our cause."

The gala has become a longstanding Clinton tradition dating back to the early 2000s. Each event features a unique theme, and this year's Diamonds & Denim concept combined elegance with a relaxed rural atmosphere.

"We pick a different theme every time, and as you can see, we try to have some fun with it," Stevenson said with a smile.

While the evening offered plenty of entertainment and celebration, the directors emphasized the event's important purpose. Funds raised support the purchase of vital medical equipment and help strengthen healthcare services at Clinton Public Hospital.

For David Jewitt, treasurer and board member of the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation, community support remains essential to the hospital's success.

"We appreciate every dollar we receive from the local community because it helps fill funding gaps," Jewitt said.

"The foundation is responsible for fundraising for equipment in the hospital, so we're very appreciative of everyone who is here tonight and the support they bring."

Jewitt noted that maintaining strong healthcare services in rural communities is critical for residents.

"Having a hospital in a local community saves trips to larger urban centres," he said.

"Some people have mobility challenges, and others simply aren't able to travel easily. Having a local hospital provides a sense of community, safety, and peace of mind."

He added that hospitals, schools, and other community services play an important role in attracting and retaining families in rural areas. 

Looking ahead, Jewitt said maintaining a fully functioning emergency department remains a key priority.

"Having a fully functioning emergency department is incredibly important for the community," he said.

"The 24-hour emergency services we have been really key for local residents."

Kaushik Patel, a director for the hospital foundation, echoed the importance of community fundraising and its direct impact on patient care.

"Every fundraising effort, whether large or small, makes a difference," Patel said.

"The funds raised help us purchase equipment and support programs that directly benefit patients. These investments improve care and enhance the services available at our hospital."

Patel said community involvement plays a vital role in ensuring healthcare services remain strong.

"A strong community is built when people come together to support one another," he said.

"Healthcare is one of the most important services in any community, and supporting our hospital helps make our town a better place to live."

One of the highlights of the live auction was a 75th Anniversary 14-karat Maple Leaf Diamond earrings and 14-karat Canadian white gold journey pendant. The pieces reflected the gala's theme while helping raise additional funds for the foundation.

Guests also had the opportunity to bid on a variety of auction items, including a Toronto Maple Leafs package, a Stratford theatre getaway, cottage retreat in Collingwood, a handcrafted quilt, and fly-fishing adventures to name a few.

MP Ben Lobb served as the auctioneer, keeping the crowd engaged and encouraging enthusiastic participation throughout the evening.

Stevenson said the support shown by residents continues to demonstrate how much local healthcare matters to the community.

"It is surprising how the community comes together to support their hospitals," he said.

"It's not just Clinton—it's any small town around. When it comes to the hospital, there's an unbelievable amount of support, and we're greatly appreciative of that."

While the gala serves as the foundation's signature fundraising event, Stevenson noted there are many ways residents can contribute throughout the year.

"We always look for support," he said.

"Sometimes it's money, sometimes it's time, and we appreciate all of it."

The foundation's fundraising efforts will continue with upcoming events, including Legends Day on Sunday July 26 and the 2nd annual golf tournament held at Woodlands Links Golf Course, Clinton on August 26.

As guests enjoyed an evening of live music, dancing, auctions, and community buzz, the message remained clear: strong local support helps ensure the Clinton Public Hospital can continue providing exceptional care for residents today and for generations to come.