Supporting Healthcare in Kitimat

The Kitimat General Hospital Foundation supports healthcare in Kitimat by fundraising for new equipment, completing projects and improving awareness in Kitimat and the surrounding area. The Kitimat General Hospital Foundation is a registered charity.

Congratulations to our April Calendar Raffle Winner!

The LUCAS has ARRIVED!

March 2025 Calendar Raffle Winners!

Staff Wellness Coffee

New ECG for the KGH Lab!

New Fridge for the KGH Acute Care Staff Lounge!

New E-Bikes for Horizon House Clubhouse!

Smart TV for the Acute Care Lounge!

New Heated Recliner for Oncology!

Thank you CIMS for your generous donation!

Sky Ceiling Light for Digital Imaging

Ankle-Brachial Index Machine for Community Care

Garden Upgrade at MVL

Broda Chairs for Acute Care

Fast Flow Fluid Warmer for the ER

About the foundation

The Board of Directors determined early on that additional elder care facilities were required in Kitimat and with one of the first grants received, set aside funds towards this goal. Meanwhile fund raising carried on assisting the hospital with needed equipment and improvements to health care.

The first donation to Kitimat General Hospital was seed money towards an improved work station for the Emergency Room. Over the years KGHF has provided funds for an electronic laryngoscope, portable ultrasound, infusion pumps, bariatric chair colonoscope. OB/GYN table for maternity, an ultrasound and examination table for diagnostic imaging.

The Foundation has also provided funds to the Mountainview Lodge Multi-Level Care for activity programs, the Oncology Department, renovations to
the kitchen facilities at Delta King Lodge and gifts for new mothers.

Our Supported Projects

Sky Ceiling Light for Digital Imaging

TOTAL COST: $5,550.00 USD AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $5,500.00 USD This project would significantly benefit the Digital Imaging Department, particularly for CT scanner patients. The lighting enhances patient relaxation and emotional balance, reducing stress and anxiety, which is crucial for patients undergoing CT scans, especially those who experience claustrophobia. This calming environment leads to improved clinical health outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. Additionally, the lighting can support staff wellness by creating a more pleasant work environment, ultimately boosting staff productivity and the overall quality of care provided in the department.

Ankle-Brachial Index Machine for Community Care

TOTAL COST: $5,675.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $5,675.00 The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) machine is a crucial tool in homecare nursing for assessing vascular health and detecting peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where blood flow to the legs is reduced. This machine measures the ratio of blood pressure at the ankle to the arm, allowing healthcare providers to identify circulatory problems, particularly in patients with diabetes, hypertension, or other risk factors. Early detection of PAD enables timely interventions like compression therapy, which supports wound healing, maintains circulation, and promotes faster recovery while preventing future complications. Without the ABI machine, the process of testing patients for these conditions can be time-consuming and much more labor-intensive. Traditional ABI testing can take up to an hour or longer, requiring multiple blood pressure readings and pulse checks from all four limbs. In comparison, with the ABI machine, the test only takes about 3 minutes, greatly reducing the time needed for both patients and healthcare providers. This efficiency allows healthcare providers to quickly share results with family physicians, enabling prompt treatment and improving overall patient care. The ABI machine is especially valuable for foot care nurses, particularly in high-risk populations like diabetics. It helps detect early signs of arterial stiffness, preventing serious complications such as toe or limb loss. By speeding up the testing process, the ABI machine not only enhances patient care but also ensures that healthcare professionals can respond quickly to vascular health issues, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing long-term risks.

Garden Upgrade at MVL

TOTAL COST: $30,000.00 per garden AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $30,000.00 per garden Upgrading the gardens and landscaping at Mountainview Lodge is an exciting opportunity to greatly enhance the well-being of our residents. For those living in long-term care facilities, access to a safe, inviting outdoor space is incredibly important. Having an outdoor area to enjoy fresh air, engage in physical activity, or simply relax in nature can have profound benefits for both physical and mental health. Being outdoors offers patients the chance to experience a sense of freedom, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve overall mood. Nature has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while also boosting cognitive function. For residents in long-term care, these outdoor spaces can provide a much-needed escape from the confines of their rooms and give them a greater sense of independence and well-being. With the help of a local horticulturist and their team, we plan to redesign the outdoor spaces with a thoughtful approach that meets the diverse needs of our residents. The MVL Manager’s idea of creating distinct areas for different purposes – the courtyard as a social gathering place, the east garden as a calming, private space, and the west garden for recreation – will allow residents to choose the environment that suits their mood or needs at any given time. This upgrade will significantly improve the quality of life for our residents by providing them with safe, meaningful, and accessible outdoor spaces to enjoy, helping to promote their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Broda Chairs for Acute Care

TOTAL COST: $11,500.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $11,500.00 A Broda chair is an essential piece of equipment in healthcare settings, especially for elderly patients or those with mobility issues. These chairs provide enhanced support and comfort for individuals who are not safe in a regular wheelchair. Without a Broda chair, many elderly patients are confined to their beds, which increases the risk of cognitive decline and muscle atrophy. The Broda chair allows patients to be safely seated, giving them the opportunity to be wheeled outside their rooms, or even outside the facility, to enjoy fresh air—significantly contributing to their overall well-being. Currently, the Acute Care department borrows a Broda chair from Mountainview Lodge as needed, but both departments require multiple Broda chairs due to the growing number of patients needing long-term care and awaiting placements at Mountainview Lodge. Given the number of patients, particularly in the acute care, at least two more Broda chairs are urgently needed. This will ensure that all patients receive proper care, mobility, and the quality of life they deserve. Having the necessary equipment on hand is crucial for maintaining the highest standard of care and promoting the health and comfort of patients in both departments.

Fast Flow Fluid Warmer for the ER

TOTAL COST: $26,200.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $700.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $25,500.00 A fast flow fluid warmer is an essential piece of equipment for the Emergency Room, particularly in trauma or critical care situations where patients require rapid fluid resuscitation. This device is designed to quickly warm intravenous (IV) fluids before they are administered to patients, ensuring that the fluids are delivered at a safe, body-temperature level. In emergencies, particularly during trauma, shock, or severe blood loss, it is crucial to administer fluids quickly to stabilize patients. However, if fluids are delivered at room temperature or colder, they can lower the patient’s core body temperature, leading to hypothermia. Hypothermia in critical care situations can worsen patient conditions, impair the body’s ability to function, and increase the risk of complications. The fast flow fluid warmer rapidly heats fluids to a safe temperature, preventing hypothermia and helping maintain the patient's body temperature. This is particularly important in trauma or critical care cases, where patients are already in a vulnerable state. If the KGHF were able to provide funding for this equipment, it would greatly enhance the Emergency Room's ability to provide more effective and timely care, ensuring that fluids are administered at the optimal temperature. This would improve patient outcomes in urgent situations, support the medical team in delivering high-quality emergency care, and ultimately save lives by providing the best possible treatment during critical moments.

Sofa Sleeper for the Palliative Care Lounge

TOTAL COST: $5,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $5,000.00 A sofa sleeper in the palliative care lounge would be an invaluable addition for families, allowing them to stay overnight close to their loved ones during a critical time. Having a comfortable, dedicated space to sleep would enable family members to remain present, providing emotional support and comfort to their loved one, while also fostering a sense of connection. This arrangement allows families to be near their loved ones without having to leave the hospital, offering peace of mind during difficult moments. It also ensures that family members can rest in a more private, supportive environment, enhancing their ability to be present and involved in their loved one’s care. Ultimately, a sofa sleeper would contribute to a more compassionate and family-centered environment in palliative care.

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) for ER

TOTAL COST: $78,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCED NEEDED: $78,000.00 Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is an essential, non-invasive, and cost-effective diagnostic tool in the emergency room for both stable and unstable patients. Its ability to provide rapid diagnoses without the use of ionizing radiation makes it particularly valuable in trauma situations, where it can quickly identify internal bleeding and stabilize patients prior to further imaging such as CT scans. Additionally, POCUS complements other assessments and life-saving interventions in the trauma room, reducing the need for patient transport to imaging departments. POCUS is also instrumental in guiding procedures, including central and arterial line insertions, and is especially useful for locating veins in patients with challenging IV access. Furthermore, it plays a critical role in diagnosing viable intrauterine pregnancies in patients presenting with abdominal pain or bleeding during early pregnancy, helping differentiate between conditions like miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. While many physicians are trained in ultrasound, the current outdated equipment restricts its full utilization. A new, fully operational ultrasound machine would greatly benefit locum doctors, anesthesiologists, visiting specialists, and the local team. With additional ultrasound training available in Terrace, upgrading to modern equipment would enhance patient care, improve physician capabilities, and provide vital support for visiting clinicians.

Outdoor Furniture for MVL

TOTAL COST: $3000.00 - $5000.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $3000.00 - $5000.00 The KGHF has already purchased several pieces of outdoor furniture, including a beautiful, covered gazebo, which has greatly enhanced the gardens at Mountainview Lodge. However, we are now seeking additional funding to expand the outdoor seating options and further improve these spaces. By investing in high-quality, durable outdoor furniture, we can provide lasting benefits to both residents and their families. Sturdy furniture ensures comfort, safety, and accessibility, with features designed to support residents as they enjoy the outdoors. For dementia patients, these calming outdoor spaces can be especially beneficial, providing a soothing environment that helps reduce anxiety and restlessness. Being outdoors in a comfortable setting allows dementia patients to relax, engage with nature, and experience a sense of calm that can positively impact their well-being. The presence of inviting seating also fosters socialization, encouraging residents and families to gather. For staff, the addition of thoughtful outdoor spaces enhances their ability to support residents’ emotional and physical needs, promoting happiness and well-being. Durable furniture reduces the need for frequent replacements while elevating the overall appearance of the gardens. This investment will create a comfortable, welcoming environment that supports relaxation, therapy, and meaningful social connections for all residents, including those living with dementia.

Sofa Sleepers for Maternity

TOTAL COST: $10,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $10,000.00 A sofa sleeper in the maternity ward would be a valuable addition, allowing the partner to stay overnight and assist the mother and baby during those crucial first days. With the partner present, they can help with feedings, diaper changes, and comforting the mom, which can also help ease the workload for the night nurse. By sharing some of the responsibilities, the partner can provide extra support, allowing the nurse to focus on more critical tasks, ultimately benefiting both the family and the overall care provided. It also helps foster family bonding in those critical first days after birth, ensuring that both parents can rest and support each other in a more comfortable and intimate setting.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Machine (Wound Vac) for Community Health

TOTAL COST: $27,750.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $4,652.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $23,098.00 The Community Health Department currently has just one Negative Pressure Wound Vac (Wound VAC), but with the increasing demand for this critical equipment, having a second machine would significantly enhance the care we provide to our community members. A Wound VAC uses negative pressure therapy to help promote healing of chronic or acute wounds by applying controlled suction to the wound site. This process helps to remove excess fluid, improve blood flow, and encourage tissue growth, ultimately speeding up healing. It also helps prevent infection by creating a sealed environment that reduces exposure to harmful bacteria. This is particularly important for patients recovering from surgery or dealing with difficult-to-heal wounds, as it reduces the risk of complications and promotes faster recovery. Currently, the high demand for this equipment often requires us to borrow machines or wait for one to be flown in, as our sole device is in constant use. With a second machine, we would be able to provide more timely, effective treatment, allowing patients to recover at home rather than in the hospital. This would also free up critical Acute Care beds, allowing for better resource allocation and more efficient care for everyone in need. Your support in helping us raise the remaining balance for this equipment will have a lasting, positive impact on the health and well-being of our community, ensuring patients can receive the best possible care while recovering in the comfort of their own homes.

Cover for Mountainview Lodge Bus

TOTAL COST: $200,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $60,000.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $140,000.00 The bus shelter would provide a designated, covered parking space for the bus, protecting it from the elements and helping to preserve its condition by preventing weather-related damage. This would extend the lifespan of the bus and ensure it remains in good working condition for longer. Additionally, having a sheltered parking space would keep the bus organized and easily accessible, ensuring smooth and efficient transportation without causing disruptions or hazards in the surrounding area. Overall, the bus shelter would improve the facility's transportation operations by offering protection and maintaining the bus’s condition year-round.

Outdoor Storage for Mountainview Lodge

TOTAL COST: $7,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $7,000.00 An outdoor storage shed at MVL would provide a practical and organized solution for storing outdoor equipment and activity supplies. It would help keep the gardens and recreational areas tidy by providing a dedicated space for items such as gardening tools, activities, and other outdoor equipment. This ensures that these items are securely stored and easily accessible when needed, improving the efficiency of activities and keeping the outdoor spaces clutter-free. Additionally, having a designated storage area would help protect equipment from the elements, prolonging its lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements. Overall, a locking outdoor storage shed would contribute to maintaining a safe, organized, and enjoyable environment for residents and staff.

'Snuggle Bed' for Palliative Care

TOTAL COST $51,750.00 PER BED AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $3,500.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $48,250.00 Our palliative care rooms are in desperate need of upgrades to create a more comforting and supportive environment for families during one of the most difficult times in their lives. One crucial addition that would significantly improve this space is the inclusion of large "snuggle beds." These beds would allow families to sit beside or even lie down with their loved ones, offering warmth, closeness, and comfort. The ability for family members to be physically close to their loved ones during palliative care can bring immense emotional comfort. Being able to "snuggle" or simply sit together provides a sense of intimacy, connection, and support, which can be a profound source of strength during such a challenging time. This small but meaningful improvement would help families feel more present and connected, allowing them to create cherished memories and share their final moments in a compassionate and nurturing environment. Two snuggle beds (one for each palliative care room) have been requested to ensure that all families have the option to experience this intimate time with their loved ones. The quote provided is for one bed, but we are requesting two beds to accommodate the needs of both palliative care rooms. With your help, we can transform our palliative care spaces into areas of greater peace and connection, giving families the warmth and support they need during their stay. Your contribution would make a world of difference in helping us offer a more compassionate and meaningful end-of-life experience.

Harm Reduction Supplies for Community Health

Finger Puppets for HHC and KGH

The Haisla Health Centre often does immunizations and fairs at the HHC. These finger puppets are made by a Tsimshian Artist and are given to Community Health workers to give to their young patients to make them feel better when they are being immunized. We had a large donation of these about 2 years ago and they made our young community members very happy. Our hospital departments frequently see pediatric patients who can feel anxious during their visits. The finger puppets we’ve provided have been a wonderful way to ease their nerves, combat boredom, and bring some joy while they wait with parents or siblings. The staff really enjoyed giving them out, and we’ve received great feedback on how much they brighten the children's experience. We’d love to continue offering these puppets so that when patients leave, they have a more positive and memorable visit.

'Wish List' for Horizon House Clubhouse

TOTAL COST: $9,750.00 AMOUNT RAISED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $9,750.00 The Horizon House Clubhouse provides individuals with mental health challenges a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where they can find hope and opportunities to achieve their full potential. To enhance their experience and help them develop essential life skills, engage in physical activities, and build meaningful connections, they have created a wishlist of items that will significantly improve our programs and environment. The wishlist includes: • Kitchen Essentials like a new coffee maker, crockpot, and a pots and pans set, which will be used for teaching meal preparation, planning, and cooking skills to help participants foster independence in daily life. • Physical and Social Activities such as a Joola Inside Indoor Table Tennis Table with Ping Pong, oversized folding camping chairs, and a portable propane BBQ grill, all designed to encourage physical activity, teamwork, and social interaction in a fun, engaging way. • Therapeutic Décor including fidget toys, tables, and artwork, to help participants manage stress, improve focus, and promote emotional well-being. • Community Engagement Opportunities like season tickets to the Kitimat Concert Association and affordable tickets for the Kitimat Ice Demons, giving participants a chance to enjoy local culture and build connections outside of Horizon House. • Support for Clients in Crisis through gift cards to local stores like No Frills and Tim Hortons, offering immediate assistance to individuals in need. • Recreational and Outdoor Activities including a fishing charter and an upright freezer for storing food for group meals and outings, further encouraging group bonding and outdoor engagement. These items will help us continue to provide a supportive, inclusive space where participants can grow, heal, and work toward achieving their full potential. Your support will make a significant difference in the lives of those working to overcome mental health challenges, empowering them to lead fulfilling, independent lives. Thank you for helping us make Horizon House a place of hope and opportunity.

Hovermatt Air Transfer System

TOTAL COST: $5,300.00 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $1,000.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $4,300.00 The Digital Imaging Dept is requesting a reusable HoverMatt Air Transfer System. This system is designed to assist medical personnel in performing lateral patient transfers with greater ease. When inflated, the HoverMatt creates a cushion of air beneath the patient, reducing the pull force required for movement by 80-90%. This significantly enhances patient safety during transfers while also improving ergonomic safety for staff, reducing the physical strain associated with manual handling.

Snoezelen Activities for Rec Therapy

TOTAL COST: $13,000.00 AMOUNT RAISED AND COMMITTED TO DATE: $3,400.00 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $9,600.00 The Snoezelen cart is a dynamic sensory activity center designed to enhance patient care through multi-sensory stimulation. It will be used by our Recreational Therapy Department to help patients combat boredom, reduce anxiety, and alleviate sundowning symptoms in patients, particularly those with cognitive impairments or dementia. This cart is equipped with a variety of sensory tools that engage the primary senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. With features like calming lighting effects, soothing tactile surfaces, meditative music, and relaxing essential oils, the Snoezelen cart creates a calming, immersive environment for patients. This sensory stimulation promotes relaxation, mental engagement, and emotional comfort, improving overall well-being.

LUCAS Chest Compression System

E-Bikes for Horizon House

Fluent System for Gynecological Surgeries at KGH

Wireless Fetal Monitor for Maternity

A heartfelt thank you to our incredibly generous donors and everyone who participated in the 2023 Smile Cookie Campaign! Because of your support, we are able to purchase this vital piece of equipment for the maternity ward at KGH. It is expected to arrive at our hospital in May 2025. Your contribution is making a real difference!

Staff Wellness Coffee

Thanks to our generous sponsors, we are fully funded for 2024 coffee supplies for our staff wellness project! Your support makes a big difference in helping us care for those who care for others. We are now accepting donations for 2025/2026 to ensure we can continue providing this service to the hardworking staff at Kitimat General Hospital. TOTAL COST: $15,000.00 expected for 2025 - 2026 AMOUNT RAISED OR COMMITTED TO DATE: $0 REMAINING BALANCE NEEDED: $15,000.00 Northern Health collaborates with us on this project and supports it by contributing up to $300.00 per month for the supplies needed to operate the Van Houte coffee maker at Kitimat General Hospital. While this contribution is appreciated, the popularity and high usage of the coffee maker have made it clear that the costs to keep it running exceed this amount each month. For over a year, the coffee maker has been a valued addition to the hospital, providing staff with a variety of beverages such as regular coffee, hot chocolate, cappuccinos, espressos, mochas, and more. During long or busy night shifts, having access to these drinks on-site has been a game-changer for staff, offering them a much-needed break without the stress of running errands for a "fancy" coffee. This convenience allows staff to recharge and refresh, making their break times more enjoyable and helping them stay energized for their demanding work. The positive feedback from staff has been overwhelming, showing just how much of a difference this service makes in their well-being and morale. We would love to continue providing this service for free as a way to express our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our staff. However, to ensure the coffee maker remains stocked and accessible to all staff members, we need additional funding. With your support, we can continue offering this valuable service to staff, helping to boost morale, promote well-being, and brighten their workdays.

ECG Machine

A HUGE thank you to our sponsors for their generous donations, enabling the KGHF to purchase a brand new ECG machine for the lab! Your support is making a lasting impact on patient care and helping us provide the best possible service to our community.

CT Scanner

A huge thank you to all of our incredibly generous donors for helping us reach this major milestone! Because of your support, the CT scanner is fully funded and on order, with hospital renovations starting soon! We couldn’t have done it without you!

Dementia Care Home

ementia care home in Kitimat. The Kitimat General Hospital Foundation will continue with it's mandate to raise money for the dementia care village. A new Society, the Kitimat Valley Housing Society (KVHS) will oversee the design and construction of the dementia care home and is the body that will provide governance for the facility once it is operational.

News & Announcements

April 16, 2025

Congratulations to our April Calendar Raffle Winner!

We are excited to announce the April winner of our…

April 14, 2025

The LUCAS has ARRIVED!

The Kitimat General Hospital Foundation is VERY excited to announce…

Upcoming Events

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