ALTOONA – Patients, visitors and employees at UPMC Altoona at Station Medical Center have an opportunity to buy postage stamps, the daily newspaper, gourmet-flavored Keurig coffees, locally produced specialty baked goods and candies at UPMC Altoona’s new gift shop.
Located down from the K-4 entrance on the corner to the main hallway, the store is open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The gift shop serves as a fundraiser for Friends, the hospital’s auxiliary, and all monies raised go to benefit UPMC Altoona patients and families.
“The auxiliary would like to thank the hospital board and administration, Bob Strawser, executive director of Mission/Customer Service, and Andrea Cohen, vice president of real estate for Blair Companies, for this opportunity,” said Peggy Cawthern, president of Friends. “The Friends officers and members also thank Vicki Baughman, gift shop manager and buyer, and her staff associates Michele Burmeister, Patty Butterbaugh, Theresa Wilt, and many volunteers for their tireless efforts in getting the shop stocked, decorated, and customer-ready.”
The Station Medical Center gift shop distinguishes itself by offering local gourmet vendors an opportunity to display their products. Cookie Grams Bakery of Altoona and D’Lites Fruit Bouquets and Sweets will have their unique products at the gift shop.
“We are especially happy to offer D’Lites because they feature gluten-free products, such as chocolate-dipped potato chips and other desserts,” Baughman said.
And, to go with the sweet treats, the gift shop is offering gourmet coffees, teas, and hot chocolate – individually, self-served for $1.25 per 8-ounce.
“We hope everyone will stop in often and support us,” Baughman said. “We heard there was a need here and so we were willing to fill it. We’re here to serve our customers, and in turn, to serve UPMC Altoona patients and their families with the funds that we raise.”