Blue Mountain Healthcare Foundation President Jack Southworth auctions off items during the annual fundraiser dinner in 2017, with Blue Mountain Hospital District CEO Derek Daly in the background.

The Blue Mountain Healthcare Foundation annual meeting, dinner and auction Oct. 21 raised over $25,000, a huge jump from last year.

With the help from both the hospital district and the foundation, the Blue Mountain Care Center in Prairie City has received several upgrades this year, including a generator, dryer, furniture, new paint and surround sound.

At a time when some nursing homes across the state are closing down due to funding shortage, the hospital district and foundation are investing in the care center to ensure residents have a local option.

“The care center is a vital part of our community and has been for many years,” Administrator Jonie Jones said. “The improvements to the facility are key in keeping things up to date and running efficiently. The foundation has always been very gracious in funding projects or helping in any way they can. … The past and recent fundraisers and future endeavors that they are undertaking to continue to support the care center’s upgrades and projects benefit not only the care center but the entire community.”

The foundation donated all proceeds from the its golf scramble in August, and the recent auction.

Upgrades on the horizon include the HVAC system, walk-in freezer, sign, tub and kitchen stove.