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Release a butterfly and help Red Deer Hospice Society

Butterflies can be purchased for $25 to help hospice programs
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The Red Deer Hospice is holdings its second-annual butterfly release fundraiser. (Black Press file photo).

The Red Deer Hospice Society’s live butterfly release fundraiser is back for its second year.

Anyone who wants to help the hospice raise funds for programs can purchase a live butterfly to be released in remembrance of a loved one — or in celebration of a milestone, or to give hope to someone who needs it.

“Every year we host a memorial butterfly release to remember and celebrate with the families who have had someone journey through hospice in the previous year,” said Jerri Taylor, executive director at the Red Deer Hospice Society.

“Last year we created the community event and it was so well received, we wanted to continue it again this spring. Now more than ever, we wanted to give people an opportunity to celebrate, remember or give hope to someone who needs it.”

The release of butterflies is symbolic and can offer comfort to family and friends who have experienced a loss. Taylor said butterflies are often considered representations of various stages of life and demonstrate that, despite adversity, advancing time can make life more beautiful.

“We know it’s been a difficult time for everyone and in deciding to share this tradition with more people, we want to extend that hope, healing and connection across the city,” she explained.

“We hope this format gives people an opportunity to connect while still maintaining the health and safety of our community and respecting all social distancing requirements.”

Butterflies are $25 each and can be purchased online at reddeerhospice.com until May 28. All orders will be individually packed and distributed via curbside pick up on June 25.