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Annual fundraising gala celebrates Burnaby while contributing to crucial redevelopment project

Jim Pattison’s $5M matching gift inspires community to help transform Burnaby Hospital into a state-of-the-art healthcare facility

The anticipation is building for the return of Burnaby Hospital Foundation’s (BHF) first in-person annual gala on Friday, November 4, since having transitioned to virtual events in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year, the Foundation's flagship fundraising event features the city of Burnaby with its "No Place Like Home" theme, celebrating the vibrancy of everything the city has to offer, from thriving local businesses to its diverse culture and beautiful natural environment.

"In past years, Burnaby Hospital Foundation's annual gala has transported guests around the globe to visit places like Nashville, Havana, India, and China," recalls Kristy James, President & CEO of Burnaby Hospital Foundation. "This year, we are bringing the celebration to another awe-inspiring location—Burnaby!"

"We saw an outpouring of support during these past two years, and we felt that highlighting the strength we saw in our community in this year's gala was a great way to show our appreciation for this support," she continues.

"And so, after a few tough years, we want to celebrate the place where we live, work and play."

Central to the festivities will be fundraising efforts to support the Proud History, Bright Future redevelopment campaign to transform Burnaby Hospital into a state-of-the-art healthcare campus, which will exemplify cutting-edge innovation and health care excellence close to home.

James admits they have been encouraged and moved by how much the community has come together to raise funds to support the redevelopment project. Most recently inspired by a $5 million matching gift from Jim Pattison, the community has already raised over $2.5 million, securing more than half of the matching gift in only a few short months.

"I want to take this time to share thanks to Jim Pattison for his inspirational gift and for the community for stepping up to raise so much in such a short time. Not only are these funds crucial for the redevelopment, but it also shows that our community recognizes the urgent need to upgrade our hospital."

Burnaby Hospital was designed and built in 1952, with the last significant upgrade 50 years ago in 1972. Supporting the health and vibrancy of over 500,000 people in East Vancouver and Burnaby, the hospital is operating at capacity.

Supporting Burnaby Hospital Foundation

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Burnaby Hospital Foundation fundraising gala 2019, Nashville Nights. Photo via: Jay Shaw.

Everyone has an opportunity to make a difference in their community and help advance patient care, benefiting everyone who relies on the hospital now, and in the future.

For individuals and organizations wanting to make an impact at the gala, BHF is also raising funds at the event to support Burnaby Hospital’s ICU, through the purchase of essential equipment like a ventilator and several vital signs monitors. 

"Ventilators are crucial machines that move breathable air into and out of the lungs for a patient who is physically unable to breathe or is breathing insufficiently," explains James. 

"Vital signs monitors are used to display patient information and read blood pressure, pulse, temperature and oxygen saturation levels at precise intervals. These are two important pieces of equipment used daily in the hospital and our hospital needs more of them."

The Foundation also has a few sponsorship opportunities remaining that will help support the hospital's redevelopment, and would be happy to discuss sponsorship opportunities that fit your specific philanthropic and marketing objectives.

Recognizing champions in the community

The evening will include four awards that highlight the incredible contributions of members of the community: 

  • Keith and Betty Beedie Leadership in Philanthropy Award
  • Dr. Kenneth Hill Spirit of Philanthropy Award
  • Burnaby Hospital Foundation Award for Corporate Citizenship
  • Burnaby Hospital Foundation Physician of the Year Award

"We'll keep the award winners a surprise, so you might need to buy a ticket, sign up for our email newsletter or check our social media for the latest updates," shares James.

"I encourage every member in our community to take an active role in supporting their hospital, whether through donating, showing appreciation to your healthcare workers or learning more about the many ways you can support the redevelopment," she says.

"Together, we've almost reached the $30 million milestone for our redevelopment campaign and are grateful for the amazing support the Burnaby community has shown."

To learn more about Burnaby Hospital Foundation, the gala, or to make a contribution, visit bhfoundation.ca or call 604-431-2881.