ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Hospice of the Chesapeake’s inaugural Bubbles and Bingo fundraiser brought in $360,000 on Saturday, April 5, 2025, thanks to the support of businesses and individuals across Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, and Prince George’s counties. The black-tie event, held at the Atreeum at Soar Timbers in Annapolis, Maryland, drew attendees for an evening of gourmet food, champagne, and bingo, all to benefit patients and families facing serious illness and loss.
The evening began with a cocktail hour, followed by a video presentation featuring three Hospice of the Chesapeake clinical team members. Each shared personal stories of how their loved ones received hospice care, experiences that shaped their commitment to supporting patients and families daily.
The audience responded with a standing ovation, honoring the staff’s dedication. Guests then raised their paddles to donate, contributing significantly to the night’s total. The event concluded with bingo games, where five winners claimed prize packages valued between $2,500 and $8,500.
Credit: Alison Harbaugh / Sugar Farm Productions
Credit: Alison Harbaugh / Sugar Farm Productions
Credit: Alison Harbaugh / Sugar Farm Productions
Executive Director Christine Wilson expressed appreciation, stating, “Because of this amazing support, we can continue providing compassionate hospice, supportive, and bereavement care for those facing serious illness and loss. This generosity ensures dignity, comfort, and unwavering support for every patient and family in our community.” As Maryland’s largest independent not-for-profit hospice, the organization relies on such philanthropy to serve all in need, regardless of ability to pay.
Sponsors included John & Cathy Belcher, The Jim and Linda Humphrey Foundation, The John T. Baldwin Family, Dorothy Goodson, Bill and Arlene Baldwin, Medicine with a Mission, Nancy Smit & Julien Hecht, Amy Castleberry, Davies Family Foundation, John and Terri Hussman, Janis Kramer and Maria Colucciello, Maryland Oncology and Hematology, Shore United Bank, University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center, and Zachary’s Jewelers. Additional support came from Anne Arundel Dermatology, The Baldwin Corporation, FreeState Title Services, Idea Solutions, Sturbridge Homes, University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center, and What’s Up? Media. Underwriters included Barcraft Construction, LLC, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management (Murray, McGehrin & Shiery), Mullen, Sondberg, Wimbish and Stone, P.A., Brightview Senior Living Annapolis and Severna Park, Milestones Financial Services, and Peggy McKelly.
The event underscores the critical role of fundraising for Hospice of the Chesapeake, which provides end-of-life care, grief support, and other services across four counties. According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, not-for-profit hospices like this one often depend on community donations to bridge funding gaps, ensuring equitable access to care. The $360,000 raised will directly support these efforts.
Looking ahead, Hospice of the Chesapeake has scheduled two more spring fundraisers. Boots and Bling: A Culinary Experience is set for 6 to 10 p.m. on May 9 at the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. Fashion for a Cause will follow from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on June 5 at the U.S. Naval Academy’s Fluegel Alumni Center in Annapolis.
