The challenges private schools face in keeping their doors open is well-documented. After all, tuition costs and subsidies pay only a portion of the cost of educating a child.

That’s why fundraisers, and the support of the community, play an important part in what has become a year-round effort.

On the eve of its annual Basket Bonanza, St. Jerome Regional School leaders and parents are hoping the success it has had in the past will roll into the future. “It (proceeds) pays the bills; is part of our budget; and used to keep the school going,” said Amy Hannis-Miskar, school principal.

The basket bonanza, once referred to as a “Chinese auction,” will be held at the Lakeside Ballroom, Barnesville, starting Friday, Nov. 4, when doors will be open from 5-8 p.m., and continuing on Saturday, Nov. 5, when the doors will open at 10 a.m. and the drawing will begin at 4 in the afternoon.

Kathy Reaman, president of the school’s Home and School Association, sponsor of the event, said organizers are hoping the school’s major fundraiser will reach its goal of $50,000, which would be $10,000 more than what the 2021 event realized.

“We have over 300 baskets,” she said, pointing out the event has grown so big the association had to look for a new venue outside the premises of the school on Meadow Avenue in Hometown.

The event will feature about 250 “standard” baskets that are worth $100, 40 prizes worth between $100-300, and 20 baskets valued at over $300. In addition, designer and basket of cheer tables and other drawings (50-50s) are options for bonanza attendees, as are over 100 gift cards and gift certificates (with a minimum value of $25), she said.

A variety of homemade foods and desserts are likely to satisfy visitors’ palates.

Karen Weicker, coordinator of fundraising for the Home and School Association, said planning for the event began in the summer, with almost the entire month of October being dedicated to it.

“We truly appreciate the families, community and businesses who have made the event possible. The generosity is overwhelming.”

“The support makes a tremendous difference, and impacts every child who attends school here,” Hannis-Miskar said.

She pointed out tuition for children at the school, which has an enrollment of 307 pupils, is $3,908, yet the cost of education for each of them is “well above $6,500.”

“We appreciate everyone’s support, not only in this event, but all year around. People have been very good to us and it does not go without notice.”

More information on the bonanza is available at the Facebook site of St. Jerome Regional School, click on “events.”