Fundraising for a new Dedicated Molecular Diagnostic Lab at University Hospital of Northern BC (UHNBC) has met its goal thanks to a local company.
The Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation says Canfor has made a $100,000 donation to help secure enough funding for the Prince George project, which is critically needed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are incredibly thankful to so many donors who stepped up to see that this will become a reality," CEO of Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation Judy Neiser said in a news release this morning (Feb. 18).
“When Canfor went one step further to support the final amount needed we were so grateful. They are a big employer in the region and this has had an impact on their workforce and their families too. It really is a big statement for the region of how much they truly care.”
The fundraising project began last fall and was an area of greatest need throughout the Festival of Trees fundraising event.
Today's donation from Canfor is roughly one-third of the total funds that were needed to help finish the project at UHNBC.
"As the impact of COVID‐19 grew in northern B.C. towards the end of last year, we recognized the significant need for dedicated molecular testing in the region," Canfor Operations Vice President Kevin Horsnell added.
"Beyond the pandemic, the lab will continue to provide important testing and diagnostics for viral illnesses and will contribute to improving health care in the region. The health and wellbeing of our employees and communities is very important to us,”
Major lab equipment is already on-site and with funding complete, Northern Health can soon start developing the full Dedicated Molecular Diagnostic Lab.
“The pandemic has illustrated how quickly infections can spread," said Canfor Operations and Innovation Vice President Kevin Anderson.
"Since the pandemic began our employees have diligently worked to implement our COVID‐19 safety procedures and protocols to help contain the spread. Efficient testing and diagnostics are also key components to limiting infections in our communities which is why we are pleased to support the molecular
diagnostics lab."
