The Butler Health System Foundation raised more than $60,000 toward its goal of $100,000 to pay for emergency room care for children whose parents can’t afford the costs.

The annual Caring Angel fundraising campaign recently concluded with an auction at Butler Memorial Hospital that raised more than $60,000, said Kris Bowser, foundation development specialist.

“This is the 25th year for the Caring Angel program. Over the years, more than $1.8 million has been raised with support from the community, BHS employees and physicians,” Bowser said. “The proceeds go to support emergency room care for children under the age of 17 whose parent or guardians don’t have insurance or resources to pay.”

The campaign, which takes place in November and December, includes fundraisers held by the Butler School District and area businesses and a direct mailing from the hospital, Bowser said. The district raised about $20,000 in addition to the money raised at the auction, she said. The BHS auction is called a basket auction, but 61 gifts like freezers, gift cards, patio furniture, bicycles, lottery tickets and cash donated by various department staffs and business are sold, she said.

The $60,000 was raised by selling tickets for the auction and tickets for a 50/50 raffle. The raffle generated $8,000 for the foundation. Bowser said both numbers are campaign records.

“People are so generous and supportive. Everybody who participates get so excited,” Bowser said.