A small idea by two friends has turned into a community-wide initiative aimed at recognizing all the local heroes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Natasha and Nicole Humphries were having a conversation one night when they decided to try and raise funds to give all Alberta Health Services employees a small gift to thank them for all their hard work.

This includes doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, cleaning staff, and more.

“We want to show them, as a community, how much we appreciate all they have been doing for us and not just during the pandemic but all the time,” said Natasha.

The two quickly started accepting donations for a basket which would be raffled off with the proceeds going towards the healthcare workers.

However, donations kept coming in from residents, small businesses, and large companies which has helped the pair create eight different baskets worth roughly $10,000.

“I’ve actually fallen to my knees… I don’t get left speechless very often but I’ve been left speechless more this week than I’ve ever been in my entire life,” Natasha added.

They plan on accepting donations until Thursday to officially top off the last basket.

People can buy tickets until 3 p.m. on May 23 with the raffle taking place shortly after.

Natasha says their goal is to raise enough funds to help create around 1,000 thank you baskets.

“They’re going to be filled with products from our local businesses.”

More information, including how to purchase tickets, can be found on the pair’s Facebook page ‘AHS Staff Fundraiser.’