BOYLE – While worries about continued reduced hours at the Boyle Healthcare Centre swirl, the Boyle Healthcare Auxiliary continues to do what it does best — fundraising thousands of dollars to provide additional medical equipment for the hospital.
The group gathered at the facility Sept. 20, along with hospital administration and a representative from Al-Pac, to show off some of the recent results of their efforts to contribute to the wellness of the community. With the help of a $25,000 grant from Al-Pac's Community Enhancement Program, the auxiliary was able to purchase a new state-of-the-art cardiac monitor at a cost of $20,842.07.
It’s a great addition to the facility, said site manager Christie Schmelzle, as it’s modern and mobile and it’s the same kind of state-of-the-art machine Alberta Health Services would be purchasing for the hospital itself. The generousity of the auxiliary and Al-Pac just speeds the process along and is so appreciated.
“This is literally what AHS is rolling out, and so because of them we were able to get one in a group. It’s huge, it’s huge for our community,” she said. “They’re the heart of the community these ladies, and they work really hard to keep us current. It’s huge.”
Barb Sullivan, with Al-Pac's stakeholder relations department, said it’s an honour to be a part of the auxiliary’s latest project and to see it come to fruition, and to celebrate the volunteers and their partners.
“The Community Enhancement Fund aims to support local communities to grow and thrive and we are pleased to provide support for this important project for the community of Boyle,” she said.
Al-Pac provides two CEP grants each year for up to $25,000 to two eligible, local non-profit organizations. To qualify, groups must be located within 100 km of Al-Pac's mill site and within the company’s forest management agreement area; in need of small-scale upgrades, expansion or development; have the appropriate municipal construction permits; be open to all community members and enhance their quality of life.
It’s just the latest piece of equipment the auxiliary has been proud to present to the healthcare centre in recent years, which has also included a ventilator at a cost of $34,508.81, and two vital signs machines for $6,506, said auxiliary secretary Donna Larson.
