Cabinet Peaks Medical Center Foundation, citing safety concerns, is canceling its flagship fundraising gala for the second year in a row.

Most years, the gala represents the foundation’s largest fundraiser, bringing in tens of thousands of dollars from community members. With the coronavirus pandemic still looming in Lincoln County, organizers decided to call off the function in favor of a raffle, according to a release from Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.

“As much as we want to hold our annual Gala, we just don’t feel that it is the socially responsible thing to do at this time,” said Allye Anderson, executive director of the CPMC Foundation in the statement.

To encourage donations in place of the gala, Anderson sent a letter to long-time foundation contributors. Acknowledging the financial challenges posed by the pandemic she asked donors to give what they could this year.

Tickets for the foundation’s Holiday Extravaganza 5 Day Raffle are $50. Organizers will draw winners from Dec. 13 to Dec. 17.

The foundation has set aside three to four prizes for each day.

Those interested in participating in the raffle can purchase tickets from the Cabinet Peaks website or through foundation members. Donations and proceeds from the raffle will go towards Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.

Anyone with questions about the foundation or its fundraisers can call (406) 283-7140.