On June 15, staff, volunteers, and community members will gather to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Saanich Peninsula Hospital (SPH). The hospital first opened its doors on February 8, 1974, with 75 extended care beds, serving the healthcare needs of the Saanich Peninsula region. Since its opening 50 years ago, SPH has provided ambulatory, diagnostic and surgical services, emergency, inpatient, palliative, and long-term care to community residents, with an Indigenous Liaison Nurse and Patient Navigator added recently to support Indigenous patients accessing services.
"Saanich Peninsula Hospital has been a trusted pillar of healthcare in our community for the past 50 years. The dedicated staff, physicians, and volunteers have worked tirelessly to provide exceptional care with compassion and expertise," said Leah Hollins, Island Health Board Chair. "This milestone is a celebration of their commitment to improving the lives of residents."
The festivities will kick off with the SPH Auxiliary hosting a mini bazaar and craft fair in the parking lot from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Auxiliary, formed concurrently with the hospital's opening, has been a dedicated supporter of SPH for the past five decades.
At 1:30 p.m., SPH will hold a ceremony at the main entrance to unveil new land acknowledgment signage. The hospital developed the signage in consultation with the four First Nations on the Saanich Peninsula.
From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation will host a community celebration outside the long-term care facility. Attendees can enjoy a BBQ sponsored by the Foundation and operated by the Rotary Club of Sidney, as well as cake provided by Thrifty Foods. Inside the Chapel, historical displays and photographs will be available for visitors to explore and share memories.
"For 50 years, Saanich Peninsula Hospital has provided exceptional care to our community," said Chris Straub, Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation Board Chair. "The Foundation is proud to support SPH through community generosity for renovations, equipment, and staff education. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with the community."
Erin Hohl, SPH Site Director, reflected on the hospital's legacy, "We are proud of the innovative approaches our teams take to deliver high-quality, person-centered care every day. This anniversary reminds us of our deep roots serving Vancouver Island families."
As Saanich Peninsula Hospital marks this major milestone, the 50th anniversary celebrations provide an opportunity to look back at its rich history while also looking ahead to the future of healthcare delivery in the region.