Stettler residents and local businesses helped raise a record $6,175 during the third annual charity garage sale supporting the Stollery Children's Hospital.

What started three years ago in a family garage has become one of Stettler's growing grassroots fundraising traditions.

Keith McMann and his family launched the annual charity garage sale after a deeply personal experience. His granddaughter, Nayvi-Raine, was born at just 26 weeks weighing 1 pound, 11 ounces. She spent 84 days in the neonatal intensive care unit at the Stollery Children's Hospital and continues to receive specialized care there.

Wanting to give back for the care their family received, they organized a garage sale with all proceeds supporting the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation. The event began in the McMann family's garage before moving to the Hi-Way 9 warehouse the following year. As support continued to grow, this year's fundraiser was held at the Stettler Agri-Plex.

The third annual event raised $6,175, nearly tripling the $2,142.50 collected last year.

The fundraiser has expanded each year thanks to the support of volunteers, local businesses and community members. Proceeds help the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation fund specialized pediatric equipment, research, education and programs that benefit children and families across Alberta.

This year's event featured raffle prizes, auction items, family activities and entertainment that kept visitors busy throughout the day.

Several local businesses contributed to its success. Resurrected Powersports restored and prepared a Kawasaki Bayou ATV for auction, including a new set of tires. Pump It Up Rentals donated two inflatable bouncy houses, while raffle prizes were provided by Stettler Tool & Hardware, Fresh Wife, Cuttin Corners, Woodcraft by Dave and Admiral Welding. The Stettler Agri-Plex donated the venue.

Family members and volunteers also played a key role. McMann's granddaughters operated a face-painting and temporary tattoo station for children, while volunteers helped with setup, teardown and activities throughout the day.

Organizers say the record-breaking total would not have been possible without the generosity of everyone who donated, attended, purchased items or volunteered their time.

Planning is already underway for next year's event.

The Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton provides specialized care for children from across Alberta and neighbouring provinces, making community fundraisers like Stettler's annual garage sale an important source of support for programs and equipment that enhance pediatric care beyond core public funding.