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Butterflies released at the North Bay Waterfront honours lives

The 6 th Annual Live Butterfly Release Fundraiser was a success with the warm, sunny weather on Sunday at the North Bay Waterfront Kiwanis Bandshell.

The 6th Annual Live Butterfly Release Fundraiser was a success with the warm, sunny weather on Sunday at the North Bay Waterfront Kiwanis Bandshell.  

The Near North Palliative Care Network (NNPCN) organizes the fundraiser which sells brand new butterflies that are released all at the same time in honour of loved ones.

The Near North Palliative Care Network (NNPCN) Bereavement Services Volunteer Co-ordinator, Monica Do Coutto Monni. 

NNPCN Bereavement Services Volunteer Co-ordinator, Monica Do Coutto Monni, is passionate about helping others in their time of need.

“This is the greatest privilege one can have as a volunteer, to be with someone who has lost their loved ones or being with someone about to die. It is humanity at its best.”

“Every smile is important as is every hug and every moment of truth. They share these moments with us.”

Currently the NNPCN has about 60 volunteers who give their compassion and time. The Near North Palliative Care Network has been offering hospice services to clients with a life-limiting condition, respite to their caregivers, Advance Care Planning, and Grief Support Sessions for 27 years.

Do Coutto Monni says the open-air butterfly release is the organization's main fundraiser as they rely on donations to keep going.  

Over 400 butterflies were set free. In the wild, Monarch butterflies are struggling to survive so the release helps to raise their population.  

They are acquired from an Orillia nursery. The butterflies are delivered in special packages to keep them dark and cool. When the package has been opened, the natural heat and light wakes up the insects inside. They dry out their wings and take flight.

The butterfly release grows every year. There were draw prizes, musical entertainment and the Widdifield Lion’s Club hosted a BBQ for the event.

If you wish to become a client, volunteer or make a donation, please go to their website. http://nnpcn.com/


KA Smith

About the Author: KA Smith

Kelly Anne Smith was born in North Bay but wasn’t a resident until she was thirty. Ms.Smith attended Broadcast Journalism at Canadore College and earned a History degree at Nipissing University.
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