Press Release
On Friday (March 17), the Emo and District Hospital Auxiliary hosted its annual St. Patrick’s Day tea.
As such, this is the perfect opportunity to reflect upon how “lucky” we are for all of the amazing things this organization has done for its community over the past 30 years.
Most recently, the auxiliary made its final payment for a whirlpool tub and chair lift for the Emo Health Centre, which cost nearly $30,000.
The tub is now in service and benefiting staff, residents, and the community.
Since 1997, the auxiliary has raised and donated nearly $140,000 to the Riverside Foundation for Health Care for health care improvements in our district.
The membership has funded several projects for the Emo Health Centre, including renovations to the physio department, purchasing a cardiac monitor, and funding the gazebo, to name a few.
They also have been involved in supporting district-wide initiatives such as the digital mammography and CT scanner.
“Beyond fundraising, they also provide patient services with a whole lot of heart,” said Samantha Manty, director of the Riverside Foundation.
“When I first started working with the auxiliary three years ago, I loved learning about all of the different things that they do for the Emo Health Centre and the community,” she added.
Many may not realize it but the auxiliary runs the cafeteria on a complete volunteer basis, and organizes and manages a community lending cupboard for individuals needing to borrow items like walkers, crutches, and bathing chairs.
They annually collect non-perishable food items for the local food bank, visit with patients and residents (and genuinely take time to get to know them), and provide small Christmas gifts and birthday corsages for long-term residents.
As well, they organize community events and fundraisers such as the fall tea, “Strawberry Social,” and, of course, the St. Patrick’s Day tea.
“We are so lucky to work with the auxiliary,” enthused Manty.
“It is apparent that each member puts their heart and soul into improving health care in Emo and the surrounding district,” she remarked.
“We are so grateful for all that they do, and congratulate them on 30 years of making a difference!”
