The Elk Valley Thrift Shop has donated $10,000 in support of East Kootenay Foundation for Health’s (EKFH) upcoming Starlite Campaign to bring a new state-of-the-art mammography system to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH).

The funds were raised from the proceeds of their volunteer operated thrift shop in Sparwood.

This campaign will be raising $1,000,000 to purchase the new machine over the holiday season. The new machine uses advanced 3D imaging technology. This technology can detect more cancers earlier, provide quicker results, and will make for a more comfortable screening experience for patients.

It is estimated that about one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lives, making it important to have the best possible screening technology in the East Kootenay.

Breast cancer can also occur in men. In 2026 it is estimated 300 men in Canada will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 60 will die from breast cancer.

With the support of organizations across the East Kootenay, including the Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society, the new mammography machine addition will help friends and loved ones get the opportunity to live longer, healthier lives.

Brenna Hong, Executive Director of the EKFH, commented, “We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with the Elk Valley Thrift Shop Society. The dedication, hard work, and passion demonstrated by their team are truly extraordinary. Beyond their incredible efforts, the positive impact they make in the lives of so many people throughout our community is nothing short of inspiring.

“Their generosity and commitment to helping others make a meaningful difference every single day, and we are so proud to work alongside an organization that embodies the true spirit of community. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for everything you do!”

More details about the Starlite Campaign and new mammography machine are available online.

If you are interested in learning more or donating, please contact EKFH at [email protected], 250- 489-6481, or visit our office in the lobby of the East Kootenay Regional Hospital.

The Elk Valley Thrift Shop is a volunteer operated second hand store located in the town centre in Sparwood. As a non-profit society that aims to give back to their communities, they have donated over $95,000 towards community charities this year. To learn more, contact the thrift store at 250-425- 0800 or visit their Facebook group.

East Kootenay Foundation for Health fundraises to support health projects across the East Kootenay Health Region,including five hospitals, three health care centres, five long term care homes, and community health improvements.

The health care needs across our region are always evolving. Learn more about our current priorities and ways to give at ekfh.ca.

EKFH photo

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