The Legacy of Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward
The story of the P.A Woodward Foundation is deeply rooted in the legacy of Woodward’s Stores, a landmark department store chain that operated in Alberta and British Columbia for over a century. Woodward’s was a central feature of the retail scene in British Columbia during much of the 20th century, known for innovations like the "Woodward’s Famous Food Floors" supermarkets and its iconic “$1.49 Day,” held on the first Tuesday of every month.
P.A. was the visionary behind several of the store’s signature innovations, including the groundbreaking food floor which introduced the concept of self service. Always thinking of the brand, it was his idea to construct a 75 foot high beacon of light atop of the Department store which served as a bold advertisement for the brand. It could be seen as far away as Vancouver Island. However, during World War 2, the beacon had to be shut off but was replaced at the end of the war by the large ‘W’ that became an iconic piece of Vancouver’s history and skyline.
The Foundation’s initial assets came from lifetime contributions by the Woodwards, later supplemented by the residue of their estates following P.A.'s passing in 1968 and Marion’s in 1970. Since its inception, the Foundation has been guided by its Board of Directors, which has ensured the growth of its portfolio and the continuation of the Woodwards’ legacy of giving.
Key milestones include the Foundation’s renaming in 1953 to reflect both P.A. and Marion’s commitment to philanthropy, its 60th-anniversary celebration in 2013, and its upcoming 75th anniversary in 2026. This milestone is a testament to the enduring vision of P.A. Woodward, who once said:
“It is my hope that the Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward’s Foundation will be carried on in perpetuity.”
~ ‘Puggy’ Woodward
Today, the Foundation continues to honor the Woodwards’ legacy by supporting charitable organizations and making a lasting impact in the communities it serves.
Today’s PA Woodward Foundation
Since its inception, the Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward’s Foundation has made over 2,000 donations to more than 500 healthcare facilities across British Columbia, contributing more than $65 million to support the health and well-being of tens of thousands of British Columbians.
Today, the Foundation continues P.A. Woodward's legacy by donating approximately $2 million annually to advance healthcare and make a meaningful impact in communities throughout the province.
What We Do
The Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward’s Foundation is committed to advancing healthcare and improving the lives of British Columbians. By supporting impactful initiatives and fostering collaboration, we aim to create lasting, positive change in communities across the province.
Our work focuses on reducing healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved and rural areas, and enabling organizations with limited resources to achieve their goals. Whether through funding essential medical equipment, supporting innovative healthcare solutions, or partnering with charities to address critical gaps, we ensure that every dollar contributes to better care and brighter futures.
Benefitting all British Columbians
Critical Care
Tools
Underserved
Communities
Technology for
Tomorrow
Innovation in Action
Essential Medical
Equipment
Pioneering
Progress
Accessible Care
If your organization is dedicated to advancing healthcare and making a meaningful impact in British Columbia, we want to hear from you. The Mr. and Mrs. P.A. Woodward’s Foundation is always seeking opportunities to support initiatives that align with our mission. Whether you’re providing essential medical equipment, driving innovative healthcare solutions, or addressing critical community needs, we encourage you to reach out and apply for funding. Together, we can create lasting change and brighter futures for all British Columbians.
