Kitimat Auxiliary Gift Shop

Kitimat, BC – March 24, 2025 - Linda C Ivin

Nestled within the walls of Kitimat General Hospital, the Kitimat Auxiliary Gift Shop stands as a beacon of community support, raising vital funds for hospital equipment while extending its reach to benefit Mountain View Lodge, a local long-term care facility. Run entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers, the gift shop is a cornerstone of healthcare support in this tight-knit industrial town, but it’s a service perpetually in need of more helping hands.

The Auxiliary to Kitimat General Hospital has a long-standing tradition of channeling every dollar earned through the gift shop back into the community. Proceeds from the sale of snacks, small gifts, and locally crafted items directly fund the purchase of essential medical equipment for the hospital, ensuring patients receive the care they need. Beyond the hospital walls, the auxiliary’s efforts also support Mountain View Lodge, providing critical resources for the comfort and care of its residents.

Not just gifts but an assortment of hidden gems: Baby Clothes

Puzzles, crossword books:

Hand Made Quilts:

But the shop’s contributions go far beyond gestures of goodwill. Over the years, funds raised have helped acquire everything from diagnostic tools to patient care enhancements, bridging gaps that public funding alone can’t always cover.

Yet, the gift shop’s success hinges on its volunteers—a resource in increasingly short supply. Like many auxiliary programs across the region, the Kitimat team faces ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining help. The shop operates on limited hours, dictated by volunteer availability, and the auxiliary is eager to expand its reach with more support.

For Kitimat, a town known for its industrial backbone, including aluminum smelter Rio Tinto and LNG Canada , the gift shop is more than just a convenience—it’s a lifeline. With emergency room disruptions making headlines in recent years, the auxiliary’s contributions to equipment and care take on added urgency.

Residents interested in volunteering or supporting the cause can stop by the gift shop during its operating hours or contact the Auxiliary to Kitimat General Hospital directly. Located in the lobby of the hospital.

Kitimat General Hospital and Healthcare Centre. 920 Lahakas Blvd S, Kitimat, BC V8C 2S3

So, next time you’re near Kitimat General Hospital, step into the Auxiliary Gift Shop at 920 Lahakas Blvd. Browse the shelves, uncover a hidden gem, and know that your purchase is helping to build a healthier, more comfortable future for your neighbors. Stop by today and discover how a small shop can make a big impact. Thank you goes to Linda Ivin for the tour of your lovely gift shop that is more than just a simple everyday "gift". It is the gift that keeps on giving back to the community.