The East Kootenay Foundation for Health (EKFH) says its Starlite Campaign has raised more than $800,000 for health care in the East Kootenay, marking the most successful year in the campaign’s history.
EKFH says the funds will support a range of health-care priorities in the region, including hospice care, hospital equipment and oncology upgrades.
The campaign launched with a fundraising event on Nov. 1 at St. Eugene Resort Casino, where the annual Denham Ford and Kootenay Columbia Home Medical Equipment Starlite Ball raised $150,000.
The remaining funds — roughly $650,000 — came from donors across the region and beyond, EKFH says, many of whom cited appreciation for local health-care workers.
According to EKFH, additional funding will support the purchase of a second portable ultrasound for the Golden and District Hospital, oncology care upgrades at East Kootenay Regional Hospital, and support for hospitals, health-care centres and long-term care homes across the region.
Donors also contributed to the expansion of JoeAnna’s House in Kelowna, which provides accommodation for families travelling from the East Kootenay to support loved ones receiving care at Kelowna General Hospital.
The expansion will add 10 new beds, according to the foundation.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who supported our Starlite Campaign,” said EKFH executive director Brenna Hong.
“Because of you, we are making a real and lasting impact on health care across the East Kootenay region.”
The Starlite Campaign runs annually in November and December.
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