Shop for a Difference
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Did you know that the Gift Shop located in the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital is operated by the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation? All proceeds go towards purchasing new medical equipment and support programs within the hospital. It is an important revenue generator for the Foundation and has brought in more than $1.4 million since inception to support healthcare in our community. The Gift Shop was originally started by the Auxiliary Association in 1986. To help out the community, 16 strong-willed ladies stepped up to the task of opening up Gift Shop in the newly expanded hospital. The Health Foundation took over the Gift Shop in 2010, but the Ladies of the Auxiliary Association were still involved with the success of the store. Today, two original members still volunteer to work the cash register.
The Gift Shop is run mostly by volunteers. There is one paid Health Foundation staff member who oversees administrative, management, and financial duties of the Gift Shop, but the heart of the store is the volunteers. These compassionate individuals are more than cashiers; they are support for families who are visiting a sick relative, company for patients who want somebody to talk to, and a friendly face for the staff who come in during their breaks to grab a quick snack.
The Health Foundation encourages and welcomes everyone to come visit the Gift Shop; it is not just for patients and staff. The store has a variety of gift items, clothing, and personal care products that are not limited to the hospital setting. Every dollar goes back into the local healthcare community, so you can feel good about knowing that your purchase is making a local impact. COVID-19 has changed access to hospital and we can’t welcome everyone at this time, only approved staff and visitors, but we are happy to have re-opened with amended summer hours.
To learn more information about the Gift Shop and the Medicine Hat and District Health Foundation please visit our new website www.ourhealthfoundation.ca.
