White Rock, B.C. – A new refreshment cart has rolled into the building! In December 2025, in partnership with PAH Volunteer Resources, we introduced the Café Express cart in Peace Arch Hospital’s Emergency Department, offering complimentary, nutritious snacks and drinks to help nourish patients during wait times. 

PAH’s ER sees an average of 165 patients every day, which unfortunately can mean long wait times of up to several hours for some patients. It is impossible to predict how long you will have to wait because each individual patient’s wait time depends on their level of acuity and what kinds of tests and/or treatments are needed.  

The Café Express cart is one of many ways our hospital strives to ensure our patients are comfortable and cared for. The cart offers complimentary refreshments such as trail mix, fruit sauce pouches, salty snacks, water, coffee, and tea. When appropriate for a patient’s medical condition, both patients and their families can enjoy these offerings, providing nourishment and comfort during a stressful time.  

PAH staff have already noticed an overwhelming shift in the waiting room atmosphere on cart days, sharing that patients truly feel cared for and appreciated. “It’s a whole new world in the ER since the cart started,” said one PAH staff member. “It’s creating a happier environment for staff and patients alike.”  

A special thank you to Neil & Karla Kerr for funding the first year of costs for this program! We’re so grateful that you can help support patients in our ER in such a sweet way.   

This cart wouldn’t be possible without the commitment of PAH Volunteer Resources, who ensure there are smiling faces to bring the cart to life each day. Its popularity has been so strong that we’ve expanded the program to five days a week, allowing us to support even more patients and families in our ER waiting rooms. A huge thank you to everyone who has volunteered their time to support patients in such a vulnerable time.  

We look forward to continuing to serve up snacks and support in our Emergency Department! 

You can help bring refreshments to our ER! This cart is generously provided by PAHCHF and donations from community members like you. Visit the Café Express webpage HERE to learn more and donate today.