White Rock, B.C. – Local philanthropists, the Cowell Family, have made an extraordinary donation of $5 million towards the renovation and expansion of Peace Arch Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Since selling Cowell Auto Group in 2021, the family has sought meaningful ways to express their gratitude to the communities that supported them for so many years. Known for their steadfast commitment to philanthropy in healthcare in the Lower Mainland, their recent gift to Peace Arch Hospital is a powerful testament to that dedication.

“It has always been important to our family to give back to communities that generously supported our business for more than five decades,” says Gary Cowell, founder of Cowell Auto Group.

Peace Arch Hospital’s ICU is an essential department that provides close monitoring and advanced medical care for critically ill or unstable patients. Medical teams give the best care possible, but with a lack of space and outdated equipment, the current ICU needs extensive renovations to provide optimal patient care and comfort.

“Peace Arch Hospital has always been a priority for our family. We know that the hospital and their valuable programs greatly benefit the community, and my family members and I have always received excellent care here.” Gary says.

The Cowell Family are longstanding supporters of Peace Arch Hospital. In 2021, the family donated $250,000 to PAHF’s COVID-19 Emergency Fund and for two critically needed anterooms inside the new ER and OR.

“It is transformational gifts like these that represent our giving community and inspire others to give,” says Stephanie Beck, CEO of Peace Arch Hospital Foundation. “We are so grateful for the Cowell Family’s generosity and leadership and know this donation will make a profound impact in the care we provide at Peace Arch Hospital.”

The Cowell Family is passionate about charitable giving for health initiatives, having also made tremendous gifts to Richmond and Delta Hospital Foundations.

“It is our privilege to be able to give back to the community in which so many friends, former customers, and staff members live. We will continue to support the important initiatives of the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, and I hope you will join us,” Gary says.