VGH Thrift Store gives the gift of Christmas
This holiday season the VGH Thrift Store is giving the gift of Christmas to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) patients, clients and residents.
Proceeds from the store’s sales funded donations totalling $8,000 to three care sites. And, thanks to many VCH staff, these donations were transformed into meaningful gifts and events for people who may not otherwise receive something special at this very special time of year.
Making merry with George Pearson residents
The VGH Thrift Store donated $3,500 towards holiday celebrations and personalized gifts for the 115 people living at George Pearson Centre (GPC), a residential care home for adults with severe disabilities.
“Christmas can be a lonely and difficult time for some of our residents,” said Ron Stedman, supervisor, recreational therapy. “Receiving an individually wrapped and labelled gift makes residents feel special and cared about. Many family members have been touched by the store’s kind gesture, too.”
But perhaps one GPC resident said it best: “VGH Thrift Store, you rock!”
George Pearson Centre residents like Kim are celebrating the holiday season with help from the VGH Thrift Store.
Creating happy memories for mental health clients
With a $2,000 donation from the VGH Thrift Store, VCH staff purchased gifts for the 100 inpatient clients at Willow Pavilion on the VGH campus.
“We work in a tertiary mental health facility where a client’s length of stay may be anywhere from three months to more than two years,” said Patrizia Casciano Armitage, activity coordinator. “Many would go without gifts and a little happiness on Christmas morning if it weren’t for the store’s generosity.”
Viewing the wrapped presents under a tree, one client smiled broadly. “It makes me feel happy to have something under the tree,” he said.
Willow Pavilion team with gifts purchased for clients (l to r): Matt Blazi, RN; Kerry Coates, RA; Rebecca Simms, OT; Rosalie Lung, RDT; Leslie Sayer, OT; Priscilla Prasad, OTA; Andrew Weeks, RW and Paul Erkens Sodexo chef.
Bringing joy to Banfield residents
At Banfield, the VGH Thrift Store’s donation of $2,500 brings joy to the care home’s 157 residents.
“If it weren’t for the VGH Thrift Store, many of our residents wouldn’t receive a Christmas gift,” said Robert O’Neill, Banfield’s resident services manager. Gifts were delivered by Santa (Robert) at a party with all the traditional treats and trimmings.
“Thanks to the store’s volunteers and funding, we ensure every Banfield resident receives a personally meaningful gift. Receiving a gift meant just for them adds to our residents’ quality of life, and creates feelings of wellbeing for Banfield’s community of staff, family and friends.”
Banfield residents are all smiles when Santa (Robert O’Neill, resident services manager) delivers their presents, courtesy of the VGH Thrift Store.
VGH Thrift Store appreciates your support
Store donations benefitting VCH patients, clients and residents wouldn’t be possible without your support. The VGH Thrift Store welcomes your clothing, books and other household items for resale. Please drop off donations during store hours only.
Store hours: Mon – Sat 10 to 5 pm; Sun 1 to 5 pm
Address: 2535 E. Hastings St.
Phone: 604.876.3731
