Surrey and the South Fraser region once again demonstrated the power of community philanthropy as the Surrey Hospitals Foundation’s 9th Annual Celebration of Care Gala raised an astounding $1,813,325 and counting in support of local health care initiatives.
Held on February 28, 2026, at the Aria Banquet and Conference Centre, the sold-out evening brought together business leaders, philanthropists, health care advocates, and community members united by a shared purpose: advancing exceptional and compassionate care for families during life’s most critical moments. DARPAN Magazine was proud to be in attendance to witness the remarkable generosity and spirit that defined the evening.
Presented by Berezan Group and EllisDon, the gala highlighted the growing importance of community investment in Surrey’s rapidly expanding health care system. Funds raised will directly support families across Surrey and the South Fraser region, particularly through the Foundation’s Women, Children and Youth Pillar of Care.
“As Surrey’s official health care foundation, our role is to strengthen the full ecosystem of care across this city — ensuring our teams have the equipment, innovation and resources needed to meet the demands of one of the fastest growing regions in the province,” said Nicole Robson, President and CEO, Surrey Hospitals Foundation. “Together, our community raised $1.8 million in support of our Women, Children and Youth Pillar of Care. This is about capacity. It’s about ensuring that for the more than 6,000 babies born each year at Surrey Memorial Hospital — and for every family who walks through our doors — excellence in care is never compromised.”
The funds will help ensure newborns receive specialized support during their most fragile first days and that parents are steadied during moments of uncertainty — reinforcing a system of care designed to grow alongside the community it serves.
Throughout the evening, guests participated in a lively program featuring a successful live auction, raffle opportunities, and meaningful moments that underscored the tangible impact of donor support. Organizers emphasized that the total raised represents far more than a financial milestone — it signifies real, life-changing outcomes for patients and families.
The Foundation acknowledged the leadership of its Presenting Sponsors, Berezan Group and EllisDon, for their continued commitment to strengthening health care in the community. RBC served as Community Engagement Partner, while Health and Technology District supported the evening as Dinner Sponsor. BMO presented the Live Auction, 99 Nursery & Florist transformed the venue with elegant floral design, and Realco captured memorable moments through its Photo Booth experience. The Air Canada Foundation added excitement to the evening as Raffle Sponsor.
Additional partners played key roles in shaping the event experience. Red Carpet Sponsors Qualico, StreetSide Developments and Foxridge Homes welcomed guests in style, while Safe Software ensured a secure journey home as Safe-Ride Sponsor. Skye Avenue Kitchen & Lounge curated a sophisticated Whiskey Tasting Lounge, and KDS Construction elevated the dining experience as Wine Sponsor. Gold Sponsors, Media Sponsors, and valued Event Partners further amplified the gala’s reach and impact.
As the night concluded, one message resonated clearly: when a community stands behind its health care system, meaningful change follows. Thanks to collective generosity, families across Surrey and the South Fraser region will continue to receive the care, comfort, and support they need when it matters most.
