KELOWNA, BC, August 20, 2026 – In response to poor air quality caused by ongoing wildfires in the region, the KGH Foundation has decided to postpone the JoeAnna’s House Family Picnic planned for Saturday, August 22.

“Our hearts are with everyone impacted by the wildfires and with the response crews working so hard during this time,” shares Darlene Haslock, Director of JoeAnna’s House. “This was a difficult decision to make, but as a health focused organization the health and wellbeing of our community comes first.”

Although the picnic is postponed, the event’s silent auction will remain open until 2 pm Saturday, August 20, and any donations made to JoeAnna’s House are still being doubled by a generous matching donor.

JoeAnna’s House is a home away from home for families who must travel to Kelowna while a loved one receives care at Kelowna General Hospital. Over the last two years, the home has been operating with a constant waitlist, which is why the KGH Foundation is fundraising to build a 10-room expansion to ensure more of these families can access JoeAnna’s House.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the guests, sponsors, volunteers, and donors who supported our first JoeAnna’s House Family Picnic, especially our long-time partner and the events title sponsor Prestige Hotels & Resorts,” adds Haslock. “This community generosity will continue to help more families access the home during their time of need. We look forward to celebrating together at a later date and sharing more exciting news on the expansion campaign soon.”

Construction on the expansion project broke ground September 10, 2025, and is currently nearing completion.

To browse the silent auction, support the home, or learn more about JoeAnna’s House, visit JoeAnna’s House Family Picnic – Joeanna’s House.