Community Surpasses $1.2 Million Goal to Fully Fund B.C.’s First Senior Friendly Emergency Unit
Annual Winter Campaign Raises $2.9 Million in Total for Healthcare Priorities Across Central Vancouver Island
NANAIMO, BC – January 21, 2026 – The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation (NDHF) is proud to announce the successful completion of the Winter Campaign in support of funding BC’s first Senior Friendly Emergency Unit at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH).
Within the Foundation’s Season of Giving which ran November 15th through January 15th, $2.9 million was raised, including $1.25 million to fully fund British Columbia’s first Senior Friendly Emergency Unit.
The Senior Friendly Emergency Unit campaign was powered by an extraordinary outpouring of community generosity and a shared recognition of the growing pressure on the emergency department, where more than one-third of patients are seniors aged 65 and older. Momentum was accelerated by the Rogers Foundation, whose $250,000 matching gift inspired donors and played a critical role in propelling the campaign beyond expectations.
“This milestone belongs to our community,” said Barney Ellis-Perry, CEO of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation. “Donors stepped forward with compassion and determination, proving what’s possible when people come together to care for their neighbours, parents, and grandparents. Because of their generosity, seniors in our region will experience emergency care that better meets their needs, now and into the future.”
In addition to funding the Senior Friendly Emergency Unit, Winter Campaign support also included:
- $1 million raised for cancer care equipment at NRGH, helping enhance diagnostic and treatment capabilities for patients closer to home.
- $60,000 raised by the Ladysmith Health Care Auxiliary to support the purchase of new fetal monitors, strengthening care for mothers and newborns.
- Donations for primary care infrastructure in Oceanside to bring more family doctors to that growing and aging region.
The Winter Campaign was further strengthened by widespread participation in Foundation events and initiatives throughout the season, including 2 full house donor appreciation gatherings, Giving Tuesday event with corporate partners at the Grand Hotel, and the Foundation’s largest Light the Trees annual event that welcomed more than 500 community members to NRGH to shine a light on the impact of generosity during the holiday season.
“The response to this campaign sends a clear message,” added Ellis-Perry. “Our community believes in investing in care close to home and in supporting healthcare teams with the tools they need to provide the best possible care. This is donor impact in action.”
The new Senior Friendly Emergency Unit will be built within an existing wing of the Emergency Department at NRGH and will feature pressure-reducing beds, reclining lift chairs, comfort carts, softer lighting, reduced noise, and staff trained in geriatric care all elements proven to improve outcomes and enhance dignity for older patients.
BC’s first Senior Friendly Emergency Unit is anticipated to open at NRGH Winter 2026.
About Nanaimo Hospital Foundation
The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation was founded on December 30, 1977 as a means for grateful patients and loved ones to support Island Health facilities. The Foundation procures vital equipment, patient comfort items and fund medical staff education to ensure healthcare professionals have the tools and resources they need to provide the best healthcare for the central Vancouver Island communities. For over 40 years, the Foundation has stewarded donations to expand services and reduce wait times for patients right here at home.
Learn more: https://nanaimohospitalfoundation.com
Media Contact:
Andrea Bava
778-908-1764 | andrea@blitzme.ca
