Fundraiser to benefit Shriners Hospital

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Dozens turned out in Westfield Saturday night to help a local charity survive.

The recently re-opened Takoa Country Club donated its space in an effort to help the Shriners Childrens Hospital stay open in Springfield. The festivities included live music, dancing and dinner.

Al Zippin, Chairman of the Springfield Shriners Hospital Board, says that events like this help to not only raise awareness within the community but also show the board of directors how much support they already have from the community. "We're having a fundraiser to not only raise funds but to really create some more awareness of the Shriners Hospital situation. It really shows that people are concerned about our kids getting the proper care and maintaining a facility here that takes care of children."

All of the proceeds will be donated to the Shriners organization.

A vote will soon decide the fate of the hospital.