On October 10, the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation announced its largest fundraising effort to date, the $2.7 million Growing TogethER Emergency Department Redevelopment Campaign. This initiative aims to support significant improvements to the Emergency Department at St. Francis Memorial Hospital.
The redevelopment project includes a 6,000-square-foot addition to the emergency department and a 6,000-square-foot renovation of the ambulatory care clinic. These upgrades will enhance patient care by providing self-contained exam rooms for privacy, separate waiting areas for emergency and ambulatory care patients, and a standardized decontamination space for infection control. Additionally, a secure ambulance entrance with an enclosed garage will be built.
In September 2020, the Province of Ontario announced financial support for the project. However, St. Francis Memorial Hospital is required to cover 10% of the overall costs and 100% of the medical equipment expenses. To raise the necessary funds, the Foundation began the quiet phase of the Growing TogethER Campaign in June 2023.
At the recent community launch, it was revealed that 85% of the campaign’s $2.7 million goal has already been raised, thanks to the generous support of local donors. Dr. Jason Malinowski, a family physician at the hospital, noted that this renovation is the largest since the hospital was built in 1960, highlighting its importance in meeting the growing needs of patients.
Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and will take approximately two years to complete. The hospital will remain operational during this time, ensuring that patients continue to receive the care they need.
There are several ways for community members to contribute to the Growing TogethER Campaign. A new lottery will launch on October 23, and proceeds from the annual Tree of Lights fundraiser will also support the redevelopment efforts. Donations can be made directly through the Foundation or by organizing third-party events.
For more information on how to help, visit www.sfvhfoundation.com.
(Written by: Emma Butler)