Second annual Haul for Hope at YVR raises vital funds for Canadians needing to travel for critical medical care

Musqueam Territory / Richmond, B.C. (September 20, 2024): Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Hope Air today announced that more than $120,000 was raised during the second annual Haul for Hope event at YVR.

For this event, 10 teams comprised of employees from YVR and businesses across the Lower Mainland each set out to raise funds for Hope Air and, on September 20, came together to compete for the fastest time in pulling a Q400 aircraft 100 metres. The aircraft, provided by WestJet, weighs 67,000 lbs. The team from Signature Aviation completed the task in 25.03 seconds, becoming the 2024 Haul for Hope champions. The effort is a powerful symbol of the journey many Hope Air patients must undertake to access critical medical care far from home.

"We are deeply grateful to Vancouver International Airport for their unwavering support of Hope Air and the Haul for Hope event. YVR plays an essential role in ensuring that thousands of patients from underserved remote areas of British Columbia can access the critical healthcare they need in Vancouver’s hospitals. For many in remote areas travelling to medical appointments would be nearly impossible without partnerships like the one we have with YVR. Their commitment to being the connecting point for our patients ensures that all patients get the care they need regardless of where they live,” said Mark Rubinstein, CEO of Hope Air.

Hope Air is Canada’s only national charity providing support through flights, accommodations, meal vouchers and ground transportation to Canadians in financial need, who must travel to reach medical care far from home. All funds raised from this event will go towards Hope Air’s mission of ensuring no Canadian is left behind when it comes to accessing critical healthcare.

“If it wasn’t for Hope Air helping us with travel and accommodations for Sawyer’s surgery at BC Children’s Hospital, we would not have been able to afford the trip, and would have had to choose another route, so believe me when I say that my family will never forget the role Hope Air played in changing my son’s life,” said Lee Drennan, dad to Hope Air patient, Sawyer.

Of all funds raised during the Haul for Hope event, YVR contributed $50,000 and matched all funds raised by its employee teams, for a total donation of over $90,000.

“Our airport plays an essential role in facilitating access to vital health services in the Metro Vancouver region. Last year alone, Hope Air operated approximately 4,500 flights to and from YVR with patients in need of medical care and this initiative helps make those essential trips possible,” Tamara Vrooman, President and CEO at YVR said. “I extend my gratitude to airport staff – and every Sea Island worker – participating in the event this year. Thanks for both the physical and fundraising muscle you’re dedicating to this life-saving initiative.”

YVR’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with Hope Air is deeply rooted in the shared values of serving the community, especially during their most challenging and vulnerable times. YVR is honoured to play a role in ensuring that all Canadians can access critical healthcare, regardless of where they live. YVR remains dedicated to supporting the region, whether through facilitating travel or providing essential support when it’s needed most.

Last year, Hope Air fulfilled over 24,000 travel arrangements in 2023, a 144% increase from the previous year. The number of travel arrangements is expected to reach over 40,000 by the end of 2024, almost doubling its previous annual record.

For the latest travel information, visit YVR.ca or follow the airport on Twitter: @YVRAirport or @YVRAeroport.