July 31, 2026
By Tim Hundt
VIROQUA, Wis. — Nelson Agri-Center Ace Hardware is preparing to host its annual Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Bucket Sale from Aug. 7 to Aug. 9, continuing a decades-long tradition of supporting pediatric healthcare in the region.
During the three-day fundraising event, customers can donate $5 to receive a special 5-gallon bucket, which entitles them to a 20 percent discount on nearly any store item that can fit inside. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the bucket sales go directly to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, specifically supporting Emplify Health Children’s Miracle Network in La Crosse.
Over the past three years, the family-owned business has raised more than $25,000 for CMN between its Viroqua and Prairie du Chien locations. Last year’s bucket sale alone brought in close to $10,000 for the organization.
The local business has also achieved significant national recognition within the broader Ace Hardware cooperative of more than 2,700 stores. Two years ago, Nelson Agri-Center placed second in the national Ace Hardware Bucket Display Contest, securing a $5,000 donation in the store’s name for Gundersen Health System. Last year, the store took third place in the same contest, bringing home an additional $2,500 donation, and ranked 11th nationwide in total bucket sales after selling more than 2,700 buckets.
This year’s campaign centers on Sawyer Clements, a local Viroqua youth who was born not breathing in 2009 and spent 21 days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Sawyer later endured blood transfusions for internal bleeding, esophageal complications, and a major stomach surgery.
Despite his physical challenges, Sawyer has found a passion for sled hockey, and CMN has stepped in to fund his team’s ice time, provide travel gas cards, and supply a specialized camera that detects seizures while he sleeps.
“Having CMN in our community is so important and valuable,” said Sawyer’s mother, Amanda Clements. “When we were in the hospital and truly in despair and disbelief, a small and meaningful gesture of food vouchers reminded us to eat and take care of ourselves and our son.”
Sawyer and his family will make a special visit to the Viroqua store at 217 N. Center Ave. on Friday, Aug. 7, at 10:30 a.m. to kick off the weekend. The kickoff will include a fundraising grillout from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring brats, hot dogs, root beer, and the Sleepy Hollow Ice Cream Truck, with proceeds accepted via free-will donations.
Sawyer’s spotlight follows that of Liam Schott, the Viroqua resident featured during the 2025 campaign. Liam was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in the fall of 2022 and admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. CMN supported Liam by paying for his diabetic supplies during his first three months, continuing annual supply support, and providing travel gas cards and hospital meal vouchers.
“As a parent, when your child has something happen to them, the medical expenses are a thought in the back of your mind,” said Liam’s mother, Kayla Schott. “But CMN Hospitals meets you on that bridge to guide you through the help that’s available.”
Add comment