(Image Credit: CFJC News)

By Sydney Chisholm

Cassie's Charity Drive

Teen’s dazzling Christmas display once again lighting up hope for Kamloops Hospice

Dec 3, 2024 | 7:00 PM

KAMLOOPS — In the heart of Dallas, a spectacular winter wonderland shines brightly, illuminating not just the night sky but also the hopes of many in the community. At the centre of this festive spectacle is 18-year-old Cassie McNutt, whose home gleams with tens of thousands of Christmas lights, all in service of a heartwarming cause.

“It’s been a huge part of my life since I was 12 years old,” said McNutt. “It’s crazy to think that I’m 18 now and this has been going on for six years. I’ve grown up with this being in my life and I love doing it.”

But this dazzling display isn’t just for show. It’s the beacon of hope for McNutt’s 6th annual Christmas Charity Drive benefiting the Kamloops Hospice Association. What started as a young girl’s passion project has blossomed into a community-wide effort that has raised over $200,000 in the past four years alone.

Sarah Irvine, fund development lead for Kamloops Hospice Association, is overwhelmed by the impact.

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“I don’t even know where to begin,” Irvine told CFJC News. “We’ve got Cassie, who has fundraised over $200,000 for us in the last four years. It goes to our general operating costs.”

The McNutt house, located at 5215 Dallas Drive, has become a local attraction, drawing visitors from all corners of the city. But beyond the visual feast, it’s a hub for fundraising and donation collections that directly impact the lives of hospice patients and their families.

“We have this bin right here to the side of the sleigh and that’s where we’ll collect all the wishlist items for the hospice,” McNutt explains. “In the sleigh that I’m sitting in right now, we have a cash donation box right here in the front. And on the signs, we have QR codes for our 50/50 and for monetary donations.”

The charity drive’s impact extends far beyond mere numbers. Last year, McNutt’s efforts led to the purchase of 12 new cuddle beds for patient rooms.

“That allows additional comfort for our patients, the ability for a family member or loved one to crawl into bed with you,” Irvine explains. “It’s also an amazing measure in that we can accommodate people of all sizes, shapes and heights — and be comfortable.”

This year, McNutt has set an ambitious goal of $80,000, but if history is any indication, she’s likely to surpass it. Last year, she raised nearly $120,000, far exceeding her target. And the community’s enthusiasm shows no signs of waning. Just a few days into this year’s month-long fundraiser, McNutt’s charity drive has already raised more than $30,000.

For those looking to contribute, the options are plentiful. Visitors can drop off wishlist items at the McNutt residence or make cash donations on-site. For those who prefer digital options, QR codes are available for online contributions.

The charity drive also features a new 50/50 draw, with three separate jackpots up for grabs.

To participate in Cassie’s charity drive or purchase 50/50 tickets, click here.