The Gimli District Health Auxiliary continues to make a positive impact by checking off items on its Wish List Program.
Founded in 1968, the organization aims to promote health and benefit the community by providing medical equipment and supplies to the Gimli Community Health Centre.
At the same time, the auxiliary also provides bursaries to graduating students of Gimli High School who are pursuing post-secondary education in a health-related field.
Dedicated members raise funds by running the hospital gift shop as well as stock the hospital’s drink machines, collect and sell used books, host a 50/50 raffle and volunteer with Meals on Wheels.
And through their Wish List Program, the auxiliary invites health-care staff to identify specific needs for funding vital items at the local hospital.
“In 2024, the auxiliary contributed over $17,000 to support a wide range of services, including community mental health, diagnostics, therapy services, speech-language pathology, home care, emergency care and cancer care at Johnson Memorial Hospital and in the community,” said Averill Stephenson, executive director of the Interlake Eastern Health Foundation.
“Since 2008, they have donated over $260,000. Thank you, Gimli Auxiliary for 55 years of support.”
This support has benefitted programs that focus on acute care, palliative care, dialysis, chemotherapy, EMS, physiotherapy, public health, mental health and more.
Katelyn Wallach, a speech pathologist at Gimli Community Health Centre, can see the first-hand impacts of the auxiliary’s support. Through her role, she supports children from birth to school-entry, all the way from Matlock to Matheson Island.
“Speech language pathologists help kids say what they want to say, how they want to say it. I work with a number of different kids — some have a diagnosis of autism, ADHD, down syndrome, cleft lip and palate, stuttering and so on. Many of the children I get to work with do not get to see themselves represented in books and media,” she said.
“With support from the Gimli District Health Auxiliary, I was able create a mini library that highlights and celebrates neurodiversity and child development. This helps create acceptance — within themselves and others. Thank you for your support, Gimli Auxiliary Club.”
Elaine Thompson, president of the Gimli District Health Auxiliary, said meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m., usually in the Gimli hospital conference room.
“Everyone is welcome to join,” she said. “It’s a rewarding experience to improve the community and meet new friends.”
Anyone who would like to learn more about the Gimli District Health Auxiliary can contact Elaine Thompson at 204-641-1626.
