Whenever you go to through the lobby of Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, it’s hard not to be drawn to the Gift Shop and all its assortment of cute wares and souvenirs.
The shop is open seven days per week and is run by the Trail Hospital Auxiliary Society, a dedicated group of volunteers.
The society has been operating since 1942.
“The purpose of the society is to provide volunteer services and raise funds in order to enhance the quality of health care at the hospital and within the Kootenay Boundary area,” said Ellen Pollock, the society’s vice president.
“We have people who knit, crochet and sew the most amazing gifts for purchase in the Gift Shop."
Pollack said, to date, the society has raised over $1.6 million.
"In addition, we donate to Kootenay Emergency Response Physicians Association (KERPA)," she added.
They also raise money for Poplar Ridge Seniors, gardens at the hospital entrance, specialized equipment as requested and provide bursaries to graduating students from J. L. Crowe Secondary School who are pursuing a career in the medical field.
“We sponsor members to go to conferences to learn and share with other Hospital Auxiliaries of BC.”
At the Gift Shop, anyone can buy frozen dinners and soups.
In addition, they hold an annual bake sale.
This year, it will be held on Dec. 13, in the lobby of the hospital.
Some of the other services the auxiliary provides are:
- an ATM located in the lobby for the use of patients, staff and visitors;
- support services for the doctors and nurses in the Cast Clinic;
- support services at the COLPO (colonoscopy) clinic for patients coming in to meet with one of the two participating gynecologists;
- internal mail delivery service in the hospital three days a week;
- an historian to keep an accurate and up to date account of all historical data concerning the auxiliary;
- service for the KBRH library; and
- a youth volunteer program, when available.
“Without the auxiliary and the volunteer efforts of others, our hospital would not operate with the quality of service and comfort that is now enjoyed.”
If you have one or two hours per week, are over 16 years old and are looking for somewhere to volunteer, the society would love for you to join their team.
Contact Ellen Pollack at 778-460-6301.
