FARMINGTON – The Franklin Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is hosting a Tea at Four Party from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, in the hospital’s Bass Room. The tea, free and open to the public, will include a keynote speaker, information about the Auxiliary and how it benefits the hospital and live entertainment.

“The primary purpose of the tea is to attract new members to the Auxiliary, a vibrant and active organization that plans activities and special events, which raise thousands of dollars annually to support technology and programs at Franklin Memorial Hospital,” said Maureen Goudreau, development director.

“This worthy organization also provides annual scholarships to support education for students pursuing careers in the health care field,” she said.

The tea will begin with refreshments and a piano interlude by Dr. David Dixon. Then at 4:30 p.m., Dr. Eric Gunther will discuss breast cancer and its associated risk factors, followed by a brief discussion by department directors who have benefited from the Auxiliary’s work. Finally, a special performance by Stratton Elementary School’s All-Star Steel Drum Band will take place at 5 p.m.

The hospital’s gift shop is the Auxiliary’s major fundraiser in its mission to provide financial support by purchasing equipment that the hospital would like to have, but cannot fit into its budget. The Auxiliary also raises money by way of membership dues, raffles, silent teas, food sales, special events and the Remembrance Tree during the holidays.

Auxiliary President, Trudy Dawson said, “The Auxiliary is always looking for volunteers to staff its gift shop, or anyone who can share their special skills (baking, woodworking, decorating) to help with its many fundraisers.”

Auxiliary gifts over the years have benefited patients, staff and the community in many ways. Most recently, the Auxiliary purchased heart monitors for the ambulance service and emergency department, recliners and flat screen TVs for patient rooms and pledged $75,000 for the helipad during the capital campaign five years ago.

Board meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month, September through June, at Franklin Memorial Hospital. “Our goal is to work with administrators to determine a need the hospital has, and then meet that need,” Dawson said.

To RSVP for the tea or for additional information, contact Catherine Merrow at 779-2750.