The Essex Royal Canadian Legion Branch #201 was buzzing with energy on February 2 as 24 teams gathered to participate in the latest ‘Toss for Hosspice’ cornhole tournament. Organized by local resident Len Bickford, the event was held to raise funds for Erie Shores Hospice, a cause close to his heart.

Bickford shared the origins of  ‘Toss for Hosspice’ explaining that the idea came to him during a golf tournament benefiting hospice.

Wanting to create a unique fundraising event, he launched the first annual ‘Toss for Hosspice‘ on November 2, 2024, at the Camoes Portuguese Club in Harrow. Despite being organized by a small group of volunteers over just a few months, the inaugural event successfully raised $5,000 for hospice with ten competing teams.

Encouraged by its success, Bickford and his team have since decided to organize smaller cornhole tournaments throughout Essex County.

The top teams from these regional events will be invited to compete in the annual championship, which they hope to hold again in late October or early November. The recent tournament in Essex is one of these smaller lead-up events, offering a lower entry fee to encourage participation.

For Bickford, supporting hospice is deeply personal. He recalls the heartbreaking experience of losing his wife of 43 and a half years.

In early February 2023, she was hospitalized after feeling unwell. Just days later, she was moved to Erie Shores Hospice, where she received care for 11 days before passing away.

“Hospice is one of those places that you know about but hope you never have to use,” Bickford said.

“The exemplary care provided not only to my wife but to my entire family made me decide to volunteer for hospice. Donating our time as a family has become something we do in honour of a lost loved one.”

Bickford extended his gratitude to the Erie Shores Health Foundation for their support, as well as to the staff and volunteers at both Windsor and Erie Shores Hospice.

“A special thank you to everyone involved with hospice and to the volunteers who help make everything possible,” he said.

Bickford sends out a special thank you to sponsors for the event: Power House Boiler & Combustion and the Essex Royal Canadian Legion.  He would also like to thank all those who donated door prizes for the event.

The ‘Toss for Hosspice’ tournament continues to grow, uniting the community in support of a vital cause while offering friendly competition.

With more events planned, organizers hope to expand participation and increase donations for hospice care in the region.

Photos provided by Len Bickford