(Photo: RIH Foundation, Youtube)
A pair of philanthropic organizations in Kamloops have donated one million dollars to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation in support of the Atrium in the Phil and Jennie Gaglardi Tower at RIH.
The donation from Kruger and Unifor is set to support the concept atrium in the heart of the tower at RIH, which is the central focus point for visitors after they enter the new main entrance to RIH and make their way past registration.
The Kruger Unifor Atrium will be a place dedicated to patients’ and staff’s well-being, family reunions, and community gatherings.
The idea of a partnership with the Kamloops Pulp Mill to make an important donation to the RIH Foundation was first brought forth by members of Unifor; it then gained traction within the mill and part of the funds were obtained from individual contributions by workers.
Darrell Booker, the General Manager of the Kamloops Pulp Mill says the well-being of the community is really important to Kruger.
“I think that’s why an area like this, a place of compassion and care, is such a great match for us. I also wish to praise the exceptional collaboration between Kruger, our mill’s employees, and Unifor. From the start, everybody got on board for this great cause, and it allowed us to achieve such an outstanding result.”
Wesley Mitchell, Vice President, Unifor Local 10-B says the creation of the Kruger Unifor Atrium is a great source of pride for the union since it provides a space for patients and their families, hospital staff, and the community to come together and express compassion and solidarity.
“As a member of Unifor Local 10-B, I am proud that my colleagues and our union joined their efforts to give back to the community where we live and work. Our families, colleagues, and friends go to RIH to obtain healthcare and we are happy that they will now have a beautiful space to unwind and gather with loved ones during what is often a challenging period in their lives. We are grateful to all the mill employees who made donations, and to Kruger, Unifor National, Unifor Local 10-B, and Kamloops Pulp Mill for their generous support.”
RIH Foundation CEO Heidi Coleman says they are grateful to Kruger and Unifor for investing in an inclusive place that enhances the well-being of patients and staff at Royal Inland.
“It warms my heart to see patients, staff, and visitors connecting in the Kruger Unifor Atrium. Kruger and Unifor have created a legacy that we all can be proud of for years to come. On behalf of RIH staff, patients, families, and the people of our region, I would like to thank Kruger and Unifor for their generous donation and for the important role that they play in this community.”
The RIH Foundation says the one million dollar donation from Unifor and Kruger marks the single largest donation carried out in partnership between employees, employer and union representation.
