As the Canada Post strike continues to impact with both residential and commercial operations, a major Burnaby holiday fundraiser could also lose hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The strike has hit 26 days and, as of today, Dec. 10, Canada Post said it "doesn't see an end in sight."
In a news release, the Burnaby Hospital Foundation says it was planning to send 58,000 packages to current and potential donors as part of its annual holiday initiative.
The contents included personal letters, a catalogue that detailed urgent hospital equipment needs and heartwarming holiday cards that were designed by children of hospital staff.
The foundation says it could cost the foundation $800,000 in "urgently needed funds" that would buy new and upgraded medical equipment for the hospital's redevelopment.
That number stems from an average of $400,000 raised each year, plus all matching funds.
“This strike has definitely delivered a devastating blow, but the real tragedy here is that we’re not just losing donations — we’re also losing a unique opportunity to maximize every dollar through a Burnaby family’s generous matching gift,” Kristy James, Burnaby Hospittal Foundation president and CEO, said in the release.
“These are funds that will ensure our doctors and nurses have the equipment and technology they need to provide the best care. It’s an investment in the future of healthcare in Burnaby, and we can’t afford to miss it.”
For those looking to still participate, donations can be made on the Burnaby Hospital Foundation's website, by phone at 604-431-2881 or in person at organization's office (3935 Kincaid St.).
"The ongoing postal strike has stalled our efforts to reach our supporters and generate crucial donations, but as the holiday season approaches, we are hopeful—this time of year always has a way of bringing out the best in people," James added.
"Just like during the COVID-19 pandemic, we've seen how our community rallies together in times of need. We know that, with the continued generosity of our donors, we can pull through this and ensure our community has access to the exceptional healthcare it deserves.”
With files from The Canadian Press
