Thanks to donations from the VGH Thrift Store, the Christmas season will be brighter for Banfield residents and VGH Health Centre patients.

Proceeds from the store’s sales funded donations totalling $2,900 to the residential care home and inpatient psychiatry units of the Health Centre on the VGH campus. And, thanks to many staff, these donations are transforming into presents for people who may not otherwise receive something special at this very special time of year.

Personalized presents for Banfield residents

Banfield team members (l to r): Michael Dagenais and Natalie Chapman, activity workers; Jason Thorne, occupational therapist; and Yee-Sin Law, activity worker, with thoughtfully chosen gifts for residents.

The Thrift Store donated $2,500 towards the purchase of Christmas gifts for the 154 residents living at Banfield Pavilion. Staff purchased each resident’s gift, ensuring all residents receive something special and unique to what they may need or enjoy.

“Our residents appreciate the thought and effort put into their personalized gift,” says Jason Thorne, occupational therapist. “It makes them feel special and part of a community, and it brings back positive memories and lifts their spirits during the holiday season to know someone was thinking of them at this time of year, especially those without family or friends.”

Santa Claus — also known as Robert O’Neill, resident services manager — delivers the gifts at Banfield’s annual Christmas luncheon, a festive event where family members join in the fun and enjoy a turkey meal with all the fixings.

Gifts and care packages for Health Centre patients

Stephanie Mehlenbacher and Stephen Wong, VGH Health Centre occupational therapists, display the Christmas gifts and patient care packages funded by the VGH Thrift Store.

The Thrift Store has also donated $400 towards the purchase of Christmas gifts and care packages for mental health patients at the VGH Health Centre.

For patients who may not have easy access to self-care item during their stay, the care packages containing items such as lip balm, gloves, toques, socks, deodorant, and hand cream are welcomed items.

“The items we purchase make each patient’s stay a little more comfortable, enjoyable and often provides necessities that patients otherwise couldn’t afford,” says Stephen Wong, occupational therapist. “The VGH Thrift Store’s donation has made it possible for us to provide gifts and brighten our patients’ day during a time of year that can be especially difficult for many.”

VGH Thrift Store appreciates your support

Store donations wouldn’t be possible without your support. The VGH Thrift Store welcomes your clothing, books and other household items for resale. Donation drop-offs are welcome during store business hours. The VGH Thrift Store has plenty of free parking in the back for easy drop-offs.

Store hours: Mon – Sat 10 to 5 pm; Sun 1 to 5 pm (please drop off donations during these hours)

Address: 2535 E. Hastings St.

Phone: 604.876.3731

Email: vghthriftstore@shawbiz.ca