ILWACO, Wash. – September 2, 2026 – The Ocean Beach Health Foundation has launched a community-wide campaign to raise $500,000 toward the purchase of a permanent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system for Ocean Beach Health, a transformative investment that will bring expanded access to advanced diagnostic care for residents throughout South Pacific County. The Foundation’s goal is to help close the remaining funding gap needed to purchase the MRI equipment and establish permanent, on-site MRI capability within the next 18 months.
Currently, MRI services in South Pacific County are available locally only two days each week through a mobile unit. During the remainder of the week, patients often must travel 60 to 70 miles to Longview or cross into Oregon for imaging services. Transportation challenges, financial barriers, and weather conditions can delay or prevent access to care, particularly for seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions.
A permanent MRI system at Ocean Beach Health would improve timely diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of conditions, including stroke, cancer, neurological disorders, orthopedic injuries, and other serious health concerns. Local access to MRI services would also strengthen emergency care, reduce patient transfers, and help ensure residents receive care when and where they need it.
The total cost of the MRI equipment is approximately $1.7 million. Ocean Beach Health has already secured $847,000 in federal funding, providing a substantial foundation for the project. The Ocean Beach Health Foundation is leading an effort to raise $500,000 toward the remaining need, with additional funding expected from other sources.
“This is one of the most significant healthcare projects our community has had the opportunity to support,” said Sally Macy, President of the Ocean Beach Health Foundation. “A permanent MRI will strengthen healthcare access for thousands of residents today and for generations to come. Raising $500,000 is an ambitious goal, but it is also a goal within our reach. We already have remarkable momentum, a clear plan, and substantial funding secured. Now we need our community to come together and help make this vision a reality. When we invest in local healthcare, we invest in the health and well-being of every resident who calls South Pacific County home.”
“The Ocean Beach Health Foundation trustees consistently step forward to meet our community’s greatest healthcare needs,” said Merry-Ann Keane, Chief Executive Officer of Ocean Beach Health. “As volunteers, they give their time, energy, expertise, and passion because they believe that everyone in South Pacific County deserves access to excellent healthcare close to home. We are incredibly grateful that they have embraced the MRI campaign and are leading this effort on behalf of patients and families throughout our region. Their commitment reflects the very best of community service.”
The campaign will officially kick off with Bids, Brushes & Bites, a special fundraising event benefiting the MRI Campaign, on Sunday, September 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Ilwaco Cider Company.
The evening will feature a live auction, local art, food and beverages, and an opportunity for community members to learn more about the MRI project and support the campaign’s ambitious goal.
“The need is clear, the plans are in place, and the opportunity is before us. With the support of our community, we can make permanent MRI services a reality and create a lasting healthcare resource that will benefit local families for decades to come,” said Macy.
Additional Fundraisers in 2026
The Ocean Beach Health Foundation will also build toward the MRI Campaign goal through raffles at Slow Drag on September 11 and Dog-o-Rama on September 19, as well as its annual Online Auction, which opens October 5 and closes at 1:00 p.m. on October 15.
About Ocean Beach Health Foundation
The Ocean Beach Health Foundation supports Ocean Beach Health through philanthropy, volunteer leadership, and community partnerships that enhance access to high-quality healthcare throughout South Pacific County. Working alongside Ocean Beach Health leadership, providers, and community stakeholders, the Foundation helps fund projects and programs that strengthen local healthcare services and improve patient care.
