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Every holiday season, Ken Gallant transforms his home into a vibrant spectacle, illuminating the night with approximately 80,000 twinkling lights. This dazzling display, reminiscent of stars scattered across the Milky Way, is not just a feast for the eyes but also a heartfelt initiative aimed at making a difference in the lives of critically ill children.
A festive tradition with a purpose
For over 15 years, Gallant has dedicated his time and energy to creating this enchanting Christmas wonderland. Initially, his setup boasted over 100,000 lights, but he has since scaled back to focus on quality and impact.
Each year, he invites the community to enjoy the festive atmosphere while also contributing to a noble cause. “Ken’s Christmas Lights for Hope” has raised nearly $30,000 for Make-A-Wish Canada, an organization that grants wishes to children facing life-threatening conditions.
Hard work and dedication
Setting up this elaborate display is no small feat. Gallant estimates that he spends around 200 hours preparing for the season, often dedicating an hour or two each day for several months. His commitment is fueled by a desire to teach his own children the importance of giving back.
“I’ve got two healthy children, but you never know what could happen,” he reflects. “If I can show them that helping others is vital, then it’s all worth it.”
Encouraging community involvement
Gallant’s display is not only a visual delight but also a call to action for the community.
He has set up a donation box at his home and provides a QR code for online contributions, making it easier for visitors to support Make-A-Wish. Although he has noticed a decline in donations over the years, his resolve remains strong.
“Whatever we make is more than they had before we started,” he emphasizes. His message is clear: kindness and generosity can take many forms, whether through donations or simple acts of goodwill.
As the lights shine brightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and until midnight on weekends, Gallant hopes to inspire others to embrace the spirit of giving. “We need more people to be thoughtful and nice to everybody. It goes a long way,” he concludes. This holiday season, let Ken Gallant’s lights serve as a reminder that joy and hope can be shared, one twinkling bulb at a time.
