Submitted by San Juan County Public Hospital District 1.

There’s a new foundation in town! The San Juan Islands Healthcare Foundation was founded in late 2024 to help support seniors and vulnerable adults in our own community.

“It really comes out of our experiences as healthcare workers,” says foundation Chair Anna Lisa Lindstrum. “We have board members from EMS, assisted living, home care services, social services, and more. We all felt frustrated because there were people who just fell through the gaps.”

Foundation member Evan Perrollaz added, “It’s not just about helping people who don’t have enough, although that’s part of it. It’s also about fostering lifetime experiences for those who are approaching the end of their life by giving them an opportunity to fulfill a bucket list item. In addition, our goal is to provide immediate support and resources to those who are struggling with maintaining day-to-day existence. We can change lives, and we will.”

The foundation has its inaugural event on May 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Grange. A picnic lunch will be served. Members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend. Bring your checkbook!

The foundation’s goal is to strengthen the fabric of our senior community, eliminating barriers and enriching the lives of those in need. You can learn more at www.sanjuanislandshealthcarefoundation.org or follow us on Facebook @sanjuanislandshealthcarefoundation. Yes, it’s a mouthful, but look us up and come participate!