In May, the project still needed B38.5mn to meet the B56.9mn project budget.
“As of now, the hospital has received B2.67mn in public donations. Combined with support from Chalong Municipality, Rawai Municipality and the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), local government contributions total nearly B20mn,” Chalong Hospital Director Chuchart Nitchawatana told The Phuket News.
“Chalong hospital will also use more than B10mn from its own funds, leaving a shortfall of about B30mn,” he added.
He mentioned that the slow funding was due to insufficient publicity, which has hindered fundraising efforts.
“If the target is not met by the Sept 30 deadline, we may request an extension from the central committee. Suggestions have been made to organise fundraising events, such as charity concerts similar to Vachira’s ‘Light of Hope’ event, to boost donations,” he explained.
“While construction can proceed using the existing local government funding, Mr Chuchart said priority will be to finish the operating rooms, costing an estimated B26-27 mn ‒ before gradually purchasing medical equipment.
“Blueprints for the project are expected to be completed by Aug 22, after which procurement is hoped to begin in October. The process is expected to take 40-50 days in compliance with regulations,” he noted, adding that while the project might face delays, work will proceed as planned using local government funds for now.
DESIGN FOR LIFE
In a separate announcement, Chalong Hospital announced the winners of its ‘Chalong Hospital Logo Design Contest’, which aimed to create an official emblem for the hospital’s health service mission. The contest attracted 119 entries from designers nationwide.
The first prize, worth B10,000 and an honorary plaque, was awarded to Yongyut Simma. Consolation prizes went to Weerasak Sotipraphat and Mr Chittrakorn Pesanthia.
The hospital congratulated the winners and thanked all participants for their interest and creativity in supporting the hospital’s identity.
For more information about the Chalong Hospital fundraising drive, visit the Chalong Hospital website or call 076-384342-3 (ext. 2702) or 088-2940994, available 24/7. People can also email donate.chalonghospital@gmail.com.
Donations can be made directly to:
Account Name: ‘Donations to improve the operating room at Chalong Hospital’
Account Number: 664-2-95110-7
Bank: Krungthai Bank, Chalong Branch