Christmas came early this year for Vidant Beaufort Hospital.

Representatives of various departments were presented with a $21,833.59 check Friday from the Lights of Love Endowment. The money will fund 2016 project requests: physical therapy, $8,150.15; sound system for Vidant Wellness Center, $4,729.54; MRI stretcher, technology and locker room updates, $6,351; and surgical consultation room updates, $2,602.65.

The Beaufort County Hospital Foundation established the Lights of Love Endowment in September 2008, and at the board’s request, chose the North Carolina Community Foundation to manage its funds and appointed an oversight committee, as well, according to a press release from committee member Phil Holloman.

The oversight committee is made up of Holloman, Frank Belote, Chris Tkach, Alma Friedman and Jimmy Oakley.

“We really appreciate what you guys do,” said Harvey Case, president of Vidant Beaufort Hospital. “It’s really a morale booster.”

“We get excited, too. We really do,” committee member Friedman said.

The Lights of Love funds are meant to go toward equipment needs that otherwise would not be funded as part of regular hospital maintenance.

“We have funded nearly $90,000 in requests, including this year’s grant. The Endowment continues with a balance of just over $435,000,” Holloman wrote in the release. “While the BCHF may no longer exist, the funds given by the citizens of Beaufort and surrounding counties continues to provide ‘treats’ for our hospital.”

Physical therapist Maria Stalls said she is excited to see the funds coming to the physical therapy department. Physical therapy staff also debuted its improved facilities to the public at an open house event last week.

“I just love to be able to respond to what the community needs,” Stalls said on Friday.

Donations to the Lights of Love Endowment may be sent to: LOL Endowment No. 1241, North Carolina Community Foundation, 4601 Six Forks Road, Suite 524, Raleigh, N.C. 27609.