By Jessica Kenley

Coudersport — In a festive swirl of lime greens, bright reds, and joyful miniature elves, the annual Christmas Open House at the UPMC Cole hospital gift shop opened its doors to the public, drawing enthusiastic crowds and heartfelt volunteers. The event, a staple held the third week of November, transforms the hospital’s corridor into a celebration of generosity, creativity, and community spirit — all for a good cause.

When entering, this reporter was greeted by holiday decorations as far as the eye could see. The room buzzed with energy as neighbors, patients, and staff gathered to sample the handmade items, new coffees, and gourmet cracker mixes—all for sale to support the Cole Foundation and its mission to aid patients and their families.

Patrice Levasseur, the heart behind the operation, spelled out her name with a smile. “Everything that we make here in the gift shop goes back to the Cole Foundation, which in turn goes to our patients, our families,” she explained. After weeks of preparation, she paused to enjoy the outpouring of support. “Our theme this year was a whimsical Christmas. A lot of bright elves, a lot of bright lime greens and reds. And then in the back…we have new coffees that we are selling and displaying this year. Oh, and we have dips and cracker mixes.”

The gift shop, bustling with visitors, is entirely powered by volunteers. Terri Duffy, who began volunteering just three months prior, shared her enthusiasm. “I’m retired, so yeah, I like—I get to see the patients, but not on a medical–a more personal [level]. Yes, it’s more personal.” Asked about the commitment needed to bring the event to life, Terri nodded to Patrice: “She’s been in here since last Friday–Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday…setting it up.”

As for pictures, the volunteers preferred the spotlight be shined on the group effort rather than individuals, embodying the selflessness at the heart of the event.

Visitors old and new marveled at the atmosphere. “I’ve been coming, doing, you know, buying stuff for 20 years,” Terri recalled. For some, it was an opportunity to reconnect.

When asked about the event, visitors didn’t hesitate with praise. “As soon as…they opened at nine, I was down there at 9:06,” recalled Caitlin Driscoll, who works upstairs. “The women do a great job down here, setting everything up. It’s beautiful. They have, like, little snacks and coffee, you know, everything. They’re very helpful while you’re down here. I love that place.”

As the afternoon drew to a close, the camaraderie and goodwill were undeniable. “People said they wait all year for this. I do,” one attendee summarized, echoing the prevailing sentiment.

For many in Coudersport, the Christmas Open House isn’t just about shopping — it’s about coming together, celebrating the season of giving, and supporting those in need. The volunteers, the staff, the families — all played a part in weaving another thread into the town’s heartwarming holiday tapestry.