The Lakeland HealthCare Auxiliary has raised more than $5,300 for the Lakeland Community Hospital in Niles as part of its “Tree of Love” project.

Each $5 or more donation symbolically added a light to the tree in front of the hospital in memory of a friend or family member.

Each year the auxiliary chooses an area of need at the hospital that the donations will benefit. This year the money will go toward flat screen televisions in the rooms in the OB wing for educational videos.

“Especially in such a tough economy, it’s an honor to receive such a wonderful gift,” said Debra Johnson, chief administrator at Lakeland Community Hospital. “We’re a community hospital, and it’s great to have the community’s support.”

The 16th Tree of Love lighting ceremony took place Wednesday night at the hospital.

“It’s a great way to bring the community in and honor and memorialize loved ones,” Johnson said.

The auxiliary will accept donations until the end of December. Last year the hospital raised about $5,100.