A hospital auxiliary group’s efforts to raise essential funds for a local hospital were recognized with the Quinte Health Values in Action Award.

The Second Time Around shop in Picton is operated by volunteers who are part of the Prince Edward County Hospital Auxiliary team.

The establishment has been operating for 50 years and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of the hospital through the offering of a wide variety of gently used merchandise, from small appliances, to furniture, jewelry and clothing.

Along with the operation of a full-time business, the volunter team recently stepped up to support the development of a ‘comfort closet’ in the hospital to supply clothing for patients in need.

The County Auxiliary is one of three auxiliaries in the Quinte Health catchment area to operate a thrift store, with the others being the Opportunity Shop in Belleville and New to You in Bancroft.

These shops are remarkable fundraising enterprises and serve an important environmental role in the repurposing of items.

They also provide an affordable option at a time of increased cost of living.

PECMH Auxiliary president Susan Quaiff and Second Time Around volunteer Pat Evans were on hand at QH’s meeting on Tuesday to accept the award.

For details on donations and how to become a volunteer at the Second Time Around shop or with another Auxiliary program, visit the PECMH Auxiliary website.