Throughout its history, the foundation has supported projects that promote health and wellness.
The Hospital Foundation’s continuing commitment is to support special projects for St. Marys Memorial Hospital. In 1994–95, for example, the foundation contributed $268,300 toward a major upgrade of the hospital’s heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system. In 2000–2001, $373,000 went toward new x-ray equipment and in 2007–2008, $345,000 to PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), the electronic management of medical records installed in all hospitals in the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance.
Recent fundraising efforts have been directed toward the purchase and installation two automated dispensing units to improve the safety and security of drug dispensing at our site. The foundation is committed to raising funds to pay the total cost of $219,334 for these units over two years.
By far the foundation’s biggest project was construction of the Wellness Centre, combining state-of-the-art medical facilities and a YMCA Fitness Centre that has been a popular partner from the start. The main purpose of the Wellness Centre was to encourage family physicians to come to St. Marys, but not only doctors are in high demand. The Ontario Nurses Association predicts a dire future for health care as many current nurses reach retirement age. Recruiting nurses and other healthcare professionals poses a new challenge for the foundation.
When fundraising began for the new Pyramid Centre in St. Marys, the Foundation Board pledged support for a community facility that would encourage healthy activity by people of all ages. Other groups that have received grants from the foundation include:
- St. Marys Mobility Bus
- St. John Ambulance
- The Quilt (Breast Cancer Support Project)
- Grand Trunk Trail
- St. Marys Friendship Centre
- St. Marys District Collegiate
- Stratford General Hospital Foundation
- Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame