Nurses Katherine Gulbranson (left) and Debbie Noble stand near a new Panda IRES Bedded Warmer. (Photo submitted)

Four Rivers Co-op provides funding for meals and medical equipment

$20,000 donated last year

  • May. 25, 2021 12:00 a.m.

Several local non-profits and community groups remain appreciative of the Four Rivers Co-op after receiving funding last year.

Connexus Community Resources has been serving up to ten nutritious meals five days a week for Vanderhoof seniors through their Meals on Wheels program that runs out of Riverside Place.

“Without the support from organizations like Four Rivers Co-op these programs would not happen,” said social housing manager Sandra Ferguson.

A $5,000 donation will allow Connexus Community Resources to continue to provide healthy alternatives to frozen meals or fast food and help ensure seniors are eating well.

Also receiving $5,000 for healthy meals is the Fort St. James Secondary Breakfast Club that fuels students’ minds and bodies to be ready to learn by providing them with breakfast each day.

“The breakfast program has increased our school attendance by 15 per cent,” said Fort St. James Secondary School principal Craig Houghton.

Read More: Four Rivers Co-op has acquired an agriculture supplier in Vanderhoof

Vice-principal Shelley Leatherdale added the breakfast program has not only increased their student attendance but enhanced their learning by meeting a basic need and allowed for an opportunity for students and staff to interact in a positive way while eating a delicious, nutritious meal together.

St. John’s Hospital Auxiliary Society in Vanderhoof meanwhile was able to purchase a new Panda IRES Bedded Warmer that is used in the delivery or operating room and provides vital support to newborn babies such as heat and stimulation, suctioning of fluids and oxygen for breathing deficits or resuscitation.

“The total cost for the item was $33,541.64 of which Four Rivers Co-op donated $10,000, St. John Hospital Auxiliary Society $14,000 and Northern health Authority the balance of $9,541.64,” said society treasurer Dolores Honey.

“By sharing the cost, we have successfully purchased this item.”

The Four Rivers Co-op has various petroleum and retail operations located throughout B.C.’s central Interior from 100 Mile House, Fort St. James, Vanderhoof and Terrace.

Last year marks the fifth year their Community Support Fund has assisted community groups, non-profits or charitable organizations that improve the quality of life within their communities.

Read More: Four Rivers Co-op donates funds to Friendship Centre in Fort St. James


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