KELOWNA, BC, September 10th, 2025 –

This morning at 10:00am, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to officially launch the expansion of JoeAnna’s House, a vital home away from home for families traveling to Kelowna while loved ones receive medical care at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH).

Since opening its doors five years ago, JoeAnna’s House has welcomed thousands of families navigating some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Built through community generosity, the original 20-room home has demand that far exceeds capacity.

“More than 1300 families have been turned away simply because we did not have the space for them,” says Darlene Haslock, Director of JoeAnna’s House. “When a loved one is in the hospital, every family deserves a place of comfort, a place of rest and a place of compassion. And so, 18 months ago, we began the careful work that led us to where we are today – ready for the groundbreaking for the expansion of JoeAnna’s House. This means that more families will have a soft place to land when they need it the most.”

The expansion will increase capacity by 50%, adding 10 new family rooms for a total of 30. This will significantly reduce the waitlist and allow more families to remain together, close to their loved ones, when it matters most.

“Today is about more than just an expansion. It’s about this community’s commitment to positively impacting the lives of the people in the Okanagan and beyond. 1 in 4 patients at our hospital are from outside the Central Okanagan. And we know one of the most important aspects of healing is having your loved ones close,” adds Allison Young, CEO of the KGH Foundation.

Thanks to the support of the community, two incredible donors have come forward to make a gift of $100,000 towards the project, with every dollar matched.

“I cannot say enough about what today’s expansion means for the community,” says Mayor Tom Dyas. “JoeAnna’s House is a place of hope, comfort and togetherness during some of life’s most difficult times. This project reminds us that as we work together, we are stronger.”

TKI Construction, who are spearheading the project, were also in attendance, with President Brandon Panopoulos noting, “Building is about more than concrete and lumber, it’s about people, it’s about community, and about creating spaces that have a real impact. That’s why this project means so much to us.”

JoeAnna’s House stands as a testament to the power of a community. What began as a bold vision has become a lifeline for families across the southern interior, thanks to the support of donors, volunteers and community partners. Today’s groundbreaking signals a new chapter in ensuring no family is left without a place to stay when care brings them to Kelowna.

To learn more about the expansion or to make a gift, visit www.joeannashouse.com/expansion