Sunshine Coast Thrift Store Volunteer Appreciation Lunch
The Sunshine Coast Healthcare Auxiliary Thrift Store celebrated the contributions of their volunteers on June 18 at the Sechelt Indian Band Hall. Approximately 120 people attended and enjoyed a delicious lunch of pasta, chicken and salad catered by Shift Restaurant. A choice of two yummy cakes was served as dessert. Members cheerfully provided their own plate, cutlery and mug in an effort to reduce waste.
Both Karen Noon, Thrift Store Chair, and Carole Murray, Auxiliary President, thanked the assembled volunteers and quoted some amazing statistics on recent accomplishments. The renovation of the store last year was a much-needed improvement for the comfort and safety of customers and volunteers. This year, we have reached out to our community with revamped gift vouchers and donations of clothing and household goods, either by referral or through the Emergency Service Program. Payment options now include credit card and tap, with phone transfer yet to come. The website, Facebook, Garage 
Sale and Craigslist are being used to advertise and sell. A building contingency fund has been established and work on air conditioning has begun. Our Thrift Store has the highest gross profit per square foot and highest daily transaction count on the coast. The biggest day was a recent Tuesday at $3,300, and biggest month, May 2018 at $48,000. It is estimated that the store will gross approximately $550,000 this fiscal year.
The proprietors of the Rainforest Compassion Club in Gibsons explained their program of supplying their 1,000 members with access to carefully cultivated and monitored cannabis products to reduce symptoms of pain and anxiety. There were many thought-provoking questions from the floor and a heartfelt personal testimonial to the value of the product. 
Following lunch, Donna, Martina and Maureen, from the Gift Shop, presented a fabulous demonstration of the various methods of tying scarves as neckwear, carry bags, vests, pants and cover-ups. Next up was a wonderful fashion show presented by an enthusiastic group of volunteers who proudly “strutted their stuff” in outfits purchased at the Thrift Store. Fran Miller and Warren Jones (also looking dapper in Thrift Store duds) provided a lively commentary. Everyone was presented with a hand-crocheted bookmark/fashion accessory provided by Vivian Haynes with the assistance of Merilee Baldock. Many lucky volunteers went home with great door prizes and a good time was had by all.
(Submitted by Jen Gray, Publicity, Sunshine Coast Healthcare Auxiliary)
Burnaby Auxiliary Celebrates 75th
BCAHA President Marge Anderson helps mark a special milestone with Joan Duncan, Auxiliary to Burnaby Hospital President.
Northern Connections
BCAHA Communications Director Tim Sader enjoys Northern hospitality during June visits to Terrace, Hazelton, Smithers, Burns Lake and Vanderhoof. Pictured here: the scenic Wrinch Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Store in Hazelton, and a welcoming group of auxilians, including North West Area Director, Winette McEwen, in Smithers.
Adelle Watson Honoured
Adelle Watson of the Lake Healthcare Auxiliary is presented with a BCAHA Life Membership. Adelle has contributed to her Auxiliary in a myriad of ways for 50 years, serving on the executive in various positions, mentoring new executive and board members, and working in the Cowichan District Hospital Gift Shop. She has also been a visitor volunteer to patients, served on fundraising committees, and continues to willingly perform any task no matter how menial or challenging.
Pictured here: (l-r) Claire Wessan, BCAHA Vancouver Island Area Director, Adelle Watson and Lynda Avis, BCAHA Past President.
Social Media Snapshots
It was a hot, hot, hot July 28th for the Sea Cavalcade parade in Gibsons and so were the members from Hopkins and Gibsons who joined forces to put on a memorable entry. They wowed the crowd in their blue and whites, strutting their stuff. There were cheers, laughter and a great time was had by all. What wonderful ambassadors you are for the Auxiliary!
Sunshine Coast Auxiliary Facebook Page (August 6)
The Cobble Hill Fair was a success! Lots of folks turned up despite the weather. We got our name out there and handed out over 50 Thrifty Foods Smile Cards! Thank you to those people who agreed to help out by using the cards.
South Cowichan Healthcare Auxiliary Facebook Page ( August 28)
Since 1969 Delta Hospital Auxiliary Volunteers have worked tirelessly to raise funds for Delta Hospital. The Auxiliary Society’s 49th Anniversary was on June 12, 2018. In recognition, seen in the picture, are Chris, Dorothy, Ellen, Yvonne (President), and Peter serving and enjoying cake and coffee at the Hospital on July 12, 2018. Our friendly volunteers at the Thrift Store helped with the celebration by handing out treats to customers. They were also busy with our Pop-Up Jewelry Sale which is always a popular event.
Delta Hospital Auxiliary Facebook Page (July 13)
Thanks to our very supportive donors and customers, we were able to purchase not one, but TWO Thermal Imaging Cameras for the Ladysmith Fire & Rescue! These cool cameras are fast becoming a vital tool for First Responders and firefighters to identify victims in trouble and extract them from harm’s way. Pictured below is Lieutenant Matt Rickett of the LF&R and our past President Pam Fraser, all dressed and ready to go!
Ladysmith Healthcare Auxiliary Facebook Page (Sept. 13)
Tomorrow is the last day for our summer students. They have worked very hard this summer and we are so grateful to have them. Thank you, Maya, Paige, Chloe, Bailey, Hailee, Shalyn, and April!
Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary Facebook Page (August 24)
This year’s Marion Ward Bursary recipient ($1,000.00) is Lila. Lila is training to become a Nurse Practitioner.
Langley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Facebook Page (August 27)
