More Than a Place to Stay
For patients travelling to Kamloops for medical care, the journey does not begin and end at the hospital. It can mean long drives, extended time away from home, added expenses and the emotional weight of facing treatment in an unfamiliar city.
As Kamloops prepares to expand access to specialized care, the RIH Foundation recognized an opportunity to create something that would make the experience easier for patients and families travelling from outside the community.
In March 2026, the Foundation purchased a breath-taking home on Battle Street West, previously known as RareBirds Housing Co-operative, to provide affordable, temporary accommodation for out-of-town patients with their caregivers. While the house will support out of town patients undergoing radiation in the new Kamloops Cancer Centre to come, it will not be limited to cancer patients. It will welcome people travelling to Kamloops for many forms of medical care. When space is available, rooms may also support medical learners and visiting healthcare professionals.
Comfort in Every Detail
Overlooking Guerin Creek and the Thompson River, the 6,300-square-foot home offers nine bedrooms, shared gathering spaces and beautiful views of Kamloops.
Six bedrooms are located across the main and upper floors, each with a private ensuite. Three additional bedrooms are found in a lower-level suite with its own kitchenette and access to a spacious backyard.
Large windows fill the home with natural light, while a calming, nature-inspired palette creates a peaceful environment. Guests will have access to a shared kitchen, living areas, an upstairs library lounge, laundry facilities and several outdoor spaces, including a rooftop patio, front garden seating and a private backyard. The property also includes nine parking spaces and sustainable features such as solar energy and rainwater collection. A very low nightly rate will keep extended stays affordable for patients and caregivers travelling for care and help support the home’s ongoing operating costs.
The Gift That Made It Possible
The home is formally named Mercier House in recognition of Guy Mercier, who has generously pledged $1 million toward the project.
When Guy first toured the property and learned how it would be used, its purpose resonated deeply. He immediately thought of his sister and the difficult three-hour journeys she regularly endured while travelling for cancer treatment in Quebec. He saw how the home’s location, privacy and thoughtful design could ease that burden for other patients facing similar challenges.
Guy and his family have long supported initiatives throughout Kamloops. In 2020, he pledged $1 million to RIH’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in memory of his mother, Rita C. Mercier. His generosity has also supported Thompson Rivers University, the BC Wildlife Park, and many other community organizations.
Guy, I am so grateful that you believed in this project and fell in love with the house like we did. When a project connects so deeply with someone’s personal experiences and values, it becomes even more meaningful. Thank you for sharing our vision and helping bring it to life.” – Heidi Coleman, RIH Foundation CEO.
We can’t always predict what the next opportunity will be. But with your support, we can be ready for it.
A Community Effort
Since taking possession, a dedicated steering committee has been preparing the property for its new purpose. Neighbours and city councillors have also been welcomed into the house to learn more about the vision, with the project receiving tremendous encouragement and cooperation.
Steering Committee
- Nick Hawkins, Chair
- Kelly Fawcett
- Charla Johnstone
- Kent Taylor
