The Campaign for Comfort aims to raise funds to help provide extra amenities for residents and visiting families of St. Mary's Villa.

Launching the campaign was among the highlights for the SMV Foundation over the past year according to Executive Director Donna Muench.

"(It is) aimed at providing additional comfort for the residents of the villa. The goal was to raise funds to purchase equipment and furnishings. Some of these items were furnishings for the newly renovated family lounge."

Muench added that they now have a room partially furnished in the lounge.

"This room is the only private room for family to gather, and it is also available for special occasions. We are also fundraising for an outdoor gazebo for the courtyards where the residents can gather and interact during the many programs offered by our recreation staff."

There was a gazebo in the past, but it was destroyed in a wind storm, so Muench says the new one, when constructed, will be a permanent fixture.

Part of the fundraising efforts came from a fashion show held in October, which raised over $4,000.

Looking towards 2016, it will be the 20th anniversary of the foundation, and Muench expects a celebration will be tied in with the grand opening of the family lounge.

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