Winter Wonderland Raises $66,427 to Support Families at JoeAnna’s House
KELOWNA, BC, December 17, 2024 – The spirit of community, holiday magic, and generosity were on full display at MNP place this past Sunday, as the KGH Foundation hosted their 2nd annual Winter Wonderland. The popular, family-friendly seasonal celebration raised $66,427.10 to support JoeAnna’s House – the home away from home just steps from Kelowna General Hospital for the families of out-of-town patients.
The event offered a truly Okanagan themed festive experience including ice skating, holiday crafts and games, cookie decorating, a seasonal market, and of course, cherished photos with Santa. All donations will support the continued operation and now, the expansion of JoeAnna’s House.
“Being part of Winter Wonderland was truly special because JoeAnna’s House holds such deep meaning for our family,” says Kayla Vannieuwenhuizen from Salmon Arm. “When I unexpectedly went into preterm labor and our daughter Hattie had to stay in the NICU at Kelowna General Hospital, JoeAnna’s House became our sanctuary. It gave us comfort, support, and a sense of calm during one of the most challenging times of our lives — and for that, we will be forever grateful.” Watch Kayla’s story here.
“We are proud to support JoeAnna’s House, and our team was thrilled to be part of this holiday event,” says Bryan Ford, General Sales Manager at Pattison Media. “Hearing the stories of the families who stay at JoeAnna’s House is both inspiring and humbling. These stories remind us why it’s essential for our community to come together and ensure that JoeAnna’s House continues to grow and provide comfort to more families who need it most.”
The operation of JoeAnna’s House is funded entirely by community generosity. In the five years since it opened, the need has continued to outpace the 20-room home’s capacity. In total, nearly 1,000 families have been unable to access the facility due to rising demand, the need for expansion is urgent. The KGH Foundation recently announced their goal to raise $5.3 million to expand JoeAnna’s House and provide an additional 10-rooms to address the growing waitlist and help families in need.
Funds were raised at the event, and through Save-On-Foods till campaign at local stores.
“It was wonderful to connect with so many people at Winter Wonderland, especially during the holiday season,” says Scott Nazaruk, Lakeshore Save-On-Foods Manager. “At Save-On-Foods, we’re dedicated to going the extra mile for our neighbors in every community we serve, and this event was a meaningful way to help raise funds to expand JoeAnna’s House. We’re proud to play a role in helping more out-of-town families access the comfort and support they need at JoeAnna’s House.”
“JoeAnna’s House has become a lifeline for so many families,” says Darlene Haslock, JoeAnna’s House Director. “It is so hard to have to turn people away. The funds raised at Winter Wonderland bring us that much closer to achieving our goal to be able to say ‘yes’ to everyone who arrives.”
This event would not have been possible without the support of community sponsors Prestige Hotels and Resorts (title sponsor), as well as additional sponsors: GSL Group, MNP Place, Pattison Media, Beach Radio, The Lizard, OV103.9, Castanet, Global Okanagan, Big White Ski Resort, Save on Foods, Okanagan Chef’s Association, Tim Hortons, and Crowe MacKay.
“It was heartwarming to see MNP Place come alive with laughter, holiday spirit, and families enjoying time together while helping other families during some of their darkest days,” shares Haslock. “We are deeply grateful for our generous and compassionate community. To all the sponsors, volunteers, donors, and attendees – thank you. Your support ensures more families can find comfort and care at JoeAnna’s House.”
To support, and learn more about, the JoeAnna’s House expansion project visit http://www.joeannashouse.com/expansion.
Since 1978, the KGH Foundation has worked with a generous community to raise funds to support world-class health care close to home for a growing and diverse population in the interior of B.C. Today, the KGH Foundation is the lead fundraising organization for Kelowna General Hospital, JoeAnna’s House, and Central Okanagan Hospice House, while also fundraising for vital community health care programs.
Media Contact:
Jessie Billey
Marketing and Communications Manager
KGH Foundation
t | 250-862-4300 x 27270
e| Jessie.Billey@interiorhealth.ca
