HANCOCK -- The Portage Hospital Auxiliary held its annual Lights of Love Christmas tree lighting ceremony Thursday.

The auxiliary is a group who work on different projects to raise money, and this event gives scholarships to second year college students who are interested in a career in the health care industry.

They were able to raise enough money for two $1,000 scholarships. Thanks to Portage Health, who matched that amount, a total of four scholarships will be available to students. 

"The benefit is two-fold because we're able to remember people that have passed away in the past or to honor someone that we would like to remember," said Auxiliary President, Jennette Medlyn.

This event has been going on for over 15 years, and the auxiliary was also presented with a $20,000 check from the Guilded Rose Gift Shop. 
    
Hancock High School's wind ensemble was also there to play Christmas songs to the crowd.