JoeAnna’s House, located in Kelowna, B.C., first opened its doors in 2019 and has become a vital resource for out-of-town families with loved ones receiving medical care at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH). The facility operates like a home away from home, providing a place to stay and emotional support for families going through difficult times. Due to its proximity to KGH, families like Sharon Browning and Brad Howard, from Nelson, appreciate being able to easily visit their loved ones in the hospital. Howard, whose wife was admitted due to post-cancer complications, finds comfort in knowing he is just steps away if something goes wrong.
The demand for rooms at JoeAnna’s House has significantly increased over the past year, with the facility operating at full capacity for the past nine months. Director Darlene Haslock revealed that over 900 families had to be turned away in the last year, leading some to sleep in their cars or hospital hallways to be close to their loved ones. This situation is particularly challenging for families on a budget or during peak tourist seasons when accommodation options are limited. The growth in services at KGH has resulted in more families seeking accommodation at JoeAnna’s House, prompting the need for an expansion of the facility.
The capacity issue has prompted plans to expand JoeAnna’s House by adding another 10 rooms to the existing 20-room facility. A $5.5 million campaign will be launched to kickstart the expansion project, with the hope of completing it within two years. The expansion is seen as crucial to meet the growing demand from families of patients at KGH who require accommodation while their loved ones receive medical care. Approximately 25% of all patients at KGH at any given time are from outside of the Central Okanagan, highlighting the importance of facilities like JoeAnna’s House in providing support for out-of-town families.
JoeAnna’s House serves as a beacon of hope and support for families facing challenging medical situations, offering a safe and comforting place to stay during difficult times. The facility’s proximity to KGH makes it a convenient option for families needing to be close to their loved ones in the hospital. However, the high demand for rooms and the heartbreaking stories of families being turned away emphasize the urgent need for an expansion to accommodate more families in need. The planned expansion will enable JoeAnna’s House to continue its mission of providing a supportive environment for families facing medical crises.
The stories of families like Sharon Browning and Brad Howard highlight the impact that JoeAnna’s House has had on their lives during difficult times. The emotional support and convenience of being close to the hospital have made a significant difference for families going through medical crises. The expansion plans for JoeAnna’s House will allow more families to benefit from the services and support offered at the facility, ensuring that no family has to be turned away when they need a place to stay while their loved one receives medical care. The community’s support and donations are crucial in making the expansion a reality and in continuing to provide a caring environment for families facing medical challenges.
