Times Chronicle Staff
The South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation is urging local communities to follow the lead of Oliver Mayor Martin Johansen who made the very first donation with a personal gift of $1,000 to support the South Okanagan General Hospital (SOGH) Campaign.
The South Okanagan Medical Foundation launched a community-powered campaign to raise $2 million to enhance care at SOGH, ensuring the hospital remains a vital cornerstone of healthcare in the region.
The campaign will help keep the Emergency Department open, bring new ultrasound services to the community, and replace two aging X-ray machines with one modern, high-efficiency system, the SOS Medical Foundation said. These investments will allow patients to receive faster, more accurate care without having to travel to Penticton or Kelowna.
Local philanthropist Gerry Turchak and his company Brutus Trucks and Bodies have stepped forward as the Foundation’s “Giving Tuesday Champion,” matching all donations made in November up to $75,000.
“Mayor Johansen’s leadership gift is a wonderful example of the community spirit that makes Oliver such a special place,” said Ian Lindsay, CEO of SOS Medical Foundation. “His support, combined with the incredible generosity of Gerry Turchak and Brutus Trucks, will help ensure South Okanagan General Hospital continues to provide exceptional care for years to come.”
The SOS Medical Foundation will be in Oliver on November 30 at the Holly Jolly Oliver Community Winter Concert at Venables Theatre, where residents will have an opportunity to learn more about the campaign and make donations in person.
