Funding for life-saving medical research and equipment in British Columbia is being "significantly" impacted by the Canada Post strike.
On Nov. 28, a spokesperson with Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) and UBC Hospital Foundation announced their "Millionaire Lottery" — one of the province’s largest fundraising campaigns for health care — is feeling the effects. With mail service at a standstill, ticket sales and lottery brochures cannot be sent.
"The strike has severely impacted our ability to reach ticket buyers, many of whom rely on mailed materials to participate,” says Angela Chapman, president and CEO of VGH and the UBC Hospital Foundation.
Since the foundation's beginning, more than $90 million has been raised. All proceeds help fund equipment, research and innovative treatment options.
The lottery gives people the chance to win vehicles, vacations, cash prizes or homes.
"This will certainly affect the funding of much-needed equipment and medical research this year provided by our foundation to the world-class health-care teams at VGH and UBC Hospital,” says Chapman.
Funds raised also help the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and Vancouver Community Health Services.
Canada Post workers took to the picket lines on Nov. 15, calling for fair wages and better working conditions.
Canada Post reported a loss of $315 million before tax in the third quarter of 2024. It attributed the loss to a 9.6 per cent drop in parcels compared to the same period in 2023, representing six million pieces. It has pitched weekend deliveries as a way to boost revenue.
On Wednesday, the federal labour minister said the sides are too far apart on critical issues and the mediation talks have been temporarily suspended.
"This is a critical time for health care in B.C.,” says Chapman. “By purchasing a ticket, you’re not only entering for a chance to win incredible prizes but also making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families.”
Chapman explains how if the strike is resolved, mail delivery will resume on a first-in, first-out basis which will lead to lengthy impacts even after.
"We’re committed to ensuring the VGH Millionaire Lottery continues to support life-saving health care for British Columbians,” says Chapman.
There are 10 grand prize packages, valued between $3 and $3.3 million, this year, with homes in South Surrey, Langley, Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Kelowna, Vernon, Courtenay and Sooke.
Prices for tickets range from $100 to $600.
The deadline to purchase a lottery ticket is Jan. 10, 2025. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone at 1-888-445-5825, or in person at London Drugs.
