A little shop, a big impact

With the help of dedicated volunteers, St. Joseph’s gift shop and variety stores make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and residents, one dollar at a time.  

St. Joseph’s gift shops and variety stores are convenient stops for essentials, snacks, drinks, or thoughtful gifts for a friend or colleague. You may have visited one at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Parkwood Institute, Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care, or Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care.

But do you know where the money from these sales goes?  Or that the warm, helpful faces behind the counter belong to dedicated volunteers who help keep the stores running?  

That’s right—every dollar from our stores goes directly back into programs for patients and residents across St. Joseph’s. Last year alone, sales generated $154,450, all of which was used to enhance the lives of those we serve.  

"Volunteering at the store is so rewarding. Some days are busy, but on quieter days, I love brightening someone’s day—whether it’s a patient, a caregiver, someone waiting for surgery, or even staff stopping by on their break."
-Bonnie Field, Volunteer

 Managed by St. Joseph’s Volunteer Services team and supported by dedicated volunteers, these stores are run with care and purpose, with volunteers assisting in stocking shelves, helping customers, and maintaining smooth operations.  

 “The success of our stores goes far beyond dollars and cents. It’s about improving the quality of life for our patients and residents,” says Tracy Drenth, Manager of Volunteer Services at St. Joseph’s. “Every purchase made by staff, physicians, patients, and visitors directly impacts care in a tangible way.”  

Here’s a breakdown of funds generated in the last fiscal year to support patient and resident care:  

• $50,450 was allocated for low-rise hospital beds for veterans within St. Joseph’s Veteran's Care Program.  
• $54,000 funded ventilators for patients in the Complex Care Program at Parkwood Institute Main Building.  
• $15,000 allocated for equipment in the St. Joseph's Hospital operating room.  
• $5,000 towards the Wishing Well Program at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, which supports the wishes of residents.  
• $30,000 (with $15,000 allocated to both the Southwest Centre for Forensic Mental Health Care and the Parkwood Institute Mental Health Care Building) to support mental health programming aimed at enhancing the quality of life for our patients.  

Bonnie Field, a dedicated volunteer at the gift shop since June 2023, finds joy in making a difference for hospital visitors, patients, and staff.

"Volunteering at the store is so rewarding. Some days are busy, but on quieter days, I love brightening someone’s day—whether it’s a patient, a caregiver, someone waiting for surgery, or even staff stopping by on their break," says Bonnie.  

Mary Ann Linley, Director of Mental Health Programs at Parkwood Institute Mental Health Care Building, is grateful for the funds that support patient care. "From funding strawberry socials to providing streaming services for entertainment and daily essentials, we are very fortunate to have the support of the volunteers in the store, whose contributions make a big difference."  

No matter what is purchased or the cost, one thing remains constant—the dedication of our volunteers, who always show up to greet everyone with a smile.  

“Our volunteers are the heart of these stores,” adds Tracy. “Their dedication and hard work ensure everything runs smoothly, and without them, none of this would be possible. We’re incredibly grateful for their commitment to our patients and their willingness to go the extra mile every day.”  

Bonnie shares a similar sentiment, highlighting the unique role the gift shop plays in creating a welcoming environment for all who visit.  

"It’s not just about selling items - it’s about creating a space where people can find a bit of joy or distraction during challenging or stressful times,” says Bonnie. “Knowing the proceeds help enhance patient care makes every moment here truly meaningful."