Handbags for Hospice 2025 Delivers Unforgettable Night of Glamour, Laughter, and Giving

Meryl Eau, the fabulous persona of J.P. Baldwin

STIRLING, ON – The Heart of Hastings Hospice welcomed over 300 guests to a sold-out Stirling Curling Club on May 15 for their Handbags for Hospice Signature Event, presented by Chrome Supply Warehouse. From the moment guests arrived, the energy was undeniable. The room buzzed with excitement as attendees gathered for an evening of fashion, fun, and philanthropy — all in support of compassionate, community-based end-of-life care.

Stealing the show was the incomparable Meryl Eau, the fabulous persona of J.P. Baldwin, whose electric stage presence, quick wit, and glamorous flair brought the entire event to life. From start to finish, Meryl kept the audience engaged and entertained, setting the perfect tone for a night filled with laughter, generosity, and connection. Guests enjoyed an exciting live auction packed with exclusive experience packages, a silent auction filled with stunning designer handbags and luxury prizes, and an abundance of delicious charcuterie, wine, and treats.

Thank you to our Handbags Committee for pulling off another truly amazing event!

Thanks to the extraordinary support of sponsors, donors, and attendees, The Heart of Hastings Hospice is thrilled to share that the evening raised a preliminary total of nearly $115,000 — a record-breaking achievement for this beloved signature event.

“This night was truly magical,” said Pauline Pietschmann, Fundraising and Awareness Coordinator for The Heart of Hastings Hospice. “The generosity in the room was incredible, but it was the energy — that spark that Meryl Eau brought to the stage — that elevated this event to a whole new level. We’re so grateful to everyone who attended, donated, volunteered, and sponsored. This success belongs to all of you.”

Staff & Volunteers were essential to the success of this event!

Proceeds from Handbags for Hospice directly fund the hospice’s free programs and services, including in-home palliative care, the 3-bed hospice residence, grief and bereavement support for people of all ages, caregiver programming, and a robust medical equipment lending program that serves a vast 5,700 km² rural region.

Special thanks go to presenting sponsor Chrome Supply Warehouse, and to the many generous businesses, volunteers, and community members who helped make the evening such a success.

“As we finalize totals, one thing is already certain,” added Pietschmann. “Handbags for Hospice 2025 was a beautiful reminder of what our community can accomplish when we come together with heart. We can’t wait to do it again next year.”

To learn more about The Heart of Hastings Hospice or to get involved, visit www.heartofhastingshospice.ca