Foundations in the Interior region raise funds that support medical equipment, care needs and innovative local initiatives in their communities. Each organization includes respected community leaders, volunteers and staff who are passionate about meeting the needs of patients and families in Interior Health. Thanks to the generosity of their supporters, we all have a stronger health system.
In this next story of our series on the incredible health-care and hospital foundations throughout our region, we interviewed Sue Raymer, president the of the Castlegar & District Hospital Foundation.
How long have you been with the Foundation?
Sue: I have served as the president of the Foundation since 2020.
Tell us about the focus of your Foundation and why what you do is important.
Sue: The Castlegar & District Hospital Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to raising funds for equipment and services that enhance wellness, patient care, and residential care at the Castlegar and District Community Health Centre and Talarico Place in Castlegar, B.C.
This year, the Foundation is celebrating 38 years of supporting the Castlegar and District Hospital, which has since been repurposed as the Castlegar and District Community Health Centre.
Volunteers, community members and local businesses have generously donated money to help purchase specialized medical equipment identified by our health-care professionals.
Since the onset of COVID-19, the Foundation has undergone changes. Like many organizations, we have seen a decline in membership and are eager to grow. We rely on a few key fundraisers: Light Up, which takes place on the first Friday in December, and the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign in the spring. Additionally, we receive donations from local businesses in our community.
Why did you become part of the Foundation?
Sue: As a retired homecare nurse who worked in health-care centers in the Vancouver area, I am passionate about supporting the Foundation and my community.
My focus is on educating others about how we access health care and how we can provide our health-care providers and patients with the best possible equipment.
Do you have any favourite fundraising campaigns current and past?
Sue: In 2022-2023 we were able to purchase a state-of-the-art ultrasound machine for the emergency department. The bulk of the money came from donations to the Foundation, including a generous boost from local physicians. The use of this machine has helped in saving lives and reducing trips to the regional hospitals.
Is there a particular donation over the years that stands out?
Sue: In June 2024, the Foundation established a gift shop in the Castlegar and District Community Health Centre with the goal of proceeds going to the Foundation.
What is the Castlegar & District Hospital Foundation’s total donations to IH to date?
Sue: Over the past 18 years the Foundation has funded $735,000 for the purchase of equipment and other support for our local Interior Health facilities. The Castlegar & District Hospital Foundation is an essential way for the community to donate money to enhance patient care at the Castlegar and District Community Health Centre and Talarico Place.
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