Jayna Smith
jayna@calais.news
A longtime fixture inside Calais Community Hospital will soon close its doors for good.
The Calais Community Hospital Auxiliary voted last week to permanently close the hospital's Coffee and Gift Shop effective June 30, 2026. The decision comes amid declining volunteer participation, reduced customer traffic, and challenges generating sufficient revenue to sustain operations.
Located in the hospital's main lobby, the Coffee and Gift Shop has served patients, visitors, and staff for many years. The shop has offered flowers, greeting cards, gifts for adults and children, seasonal items, newspapers, snacks, beverages, and specialty coffee drinks.
The shop has been operated entirely by volunteers through the Calais Community Hospital Auxiliary, with proceeds supporting the hospital's mission. Over the years, Auxiliary fundraising efforts have contributed to facility improvements, patient services, wellness initiatives, and programs that provide comfort and care for patients and visitors.
According to Auxiliary members, all merchandise currently in the shop has been marked down by 50% as the organization prepares to wind down operations.
The closure of the shop also marks the end of the Calais Community Hospital Auxiliary itself. While the group traditionally does not meet during the summer months, members have scheduled a final closure meeting for July 13, 2026, to conclude the organization's affairs.
Calais Community Hospital President and CEO Steve Lail said they were sorry to learn that the CCH Auxiliary had decided to disband, noting that while the organization had faced ongoing challenges for some time, they understood the decision was ultimately made in the best interest of its members.
“For decades, the auxiliary has been a dedicated supporter of the hospital, its staff, and the community it serves,” Lail shared. “Through its generosity, commitment, and countless contributions, the auxiliary has left a lasting legacy that has strengthened our organization and touched the lives of many. We are deeply grateful for their years of service, and their impact will be appreciated and remembered for years to come.”
Hospital visitors wishing to shop the remaining inventory may do so before the June 30 closing date.
