Armstrong Spallumcheen Auxiliary Supports Light a Bulb in a Big Way
Solely operated by more than 65 dedicated volunteers, the ArmstrongSpallumcheen Healthcare Auxiliary (ASHA) is a fixture in this vibrantcommunity. The Auxiliary, which originated over 85 years ago, runs theextremely popular Bargain Bin thrift store in Armstrong. Locals from around thevalley make special trips to donate, shop and volunteer at the store which isopen from Tuesday through Saturday each week.
With a mandate to enhance the quality of healthcare in our region, thisenergetic team of volunteers has been donating to the Vernon Jubilee HospitalFoundation Light a Bulb campaign since 1996. And this year is no different, asthey presented the Foundation with a very significant $40,000 donation thislast week.
“People come from all over the Okanagan, partly because they know thatwe’re all volunteers”, says Marge Burtch, Bargain Bin Coordinator. “Weget incredible support from our communities with armfuls of donations so we’realways busy behind the scenes and on the sales floor. The heartfelt thank-yousthat we get, particularly from individuals who are impacted…well that’s whatwarms our hearts and keeps us going.”
“This is such a great example of how small acts can create a hugeimpact, with one household donation at a time or one small purchase at a time.This amazing group of volunteers continues to improve our community for thebetter. With this generous donation, our annual Light a Bulb campaign hasreached over $150,000, taking us past the half-way mark to our goal of $275,000. We are so grateful to the ASHA who are such strong supporters of theFoundation,” stated Kate McBrearty, Executive Director of VJH Foundation.
To help the Vernon Jubilee Hospital reach this year’s goalof raising $275,000 you can make a secure donation online at www.vjhfoundation.org, mail it to VJH Foundation, 2101–32nd Street, Vernon BC V1T 5L2 orphone it in at 250-558-1362. Each$35 tax deductible gift will light one bulb onthe tree of lights, while $500 will light an entire string.