PO Box 129
7 St. Francis Memorial Drive
Barry's Bay, ON
K0J 1B0

Phone: 613-756-3045 ext.217
Fax: 613-756-0127
Email: office@sfvhfoundation.com

Contacts: 

Erin Gienow | Executive Director
613-756-3045 ext.333
erin@sfvhfoundation.com

Administration/ Receipting/General Enquiries
613-756-3045 ext.217
office@sfvhfoundation.com

Office is open Monday-Friday from 8-4. Drop by any time!

Sustainable giving for exceptional community healthcare

Our Mission

We inspire people to invest in the future of our local healthcare organizations 

Our Values

• Integrity
• Trust
• Accountability
• Donor First
• Respectful Partnerships
• Transparency 

Formerly the St. Francis Memorial Hospital Foundation,  our mission is to advance health care for patients and families in the Madawaska Valley by raising funds to support the facility and capital equipment needs of our non profit healthcare organizations, namely the St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care, and Valley Manor Nursing Home.

Although the province funding structure provides for the day to day operation of our health care organizations, capital and building needs are not included in the funding structure . These organizations rely on the Foundation to raise the funds necessary for their needs in order to continue to provide our patients and their families with the best possible care, close to home.

The SFVH Foundation is located at the front entrance of the St. Francis Memorial Hospital. Drop in visits are encouraged and welcomed!!

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Donations can be left at the front desk or our drop box  or by donating securely  on line through this website. Alternatively you can give us a call and we will be pleased to assist you!

St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation
Erin Gienow | Executive Director
Box 129, 7 St Francis Memorial Dr
Barry's Bay, ON KOJ 1B0

Phone: (613) 756-3044, Ext. 333
email: office@sfvhfoundation.com

Registered Charity # 89453 4817 RR0001

Whether it's a concert, raffle, ticket draw or a special fundraising event hosted by the Foundation, there are many opportunities for someone to get involved in helping community healthcare.

With the support of individuals and organizations throughout our large catchment area, we have developed a variety of ways you can give including: (see below)

​For further information about any of our programs, please contact SFVH Foundation at 613-756-3045 ex 333.

Leave a legacy on local healthcare by dedicating In Memoriam and Planned Giving
gifts to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. 

Two Ways to Play Catch the Ace!

The St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation is thrilled to announce a new and improved 7^th edition of its Catch the Ace lottery (RAF1340755)! You now have two options to buy your Catch the Ace tickets in person at your favourite vendor or online!  Funds raised from lottery 7 will help support the endless equipment needs at St. Francis Memorial Hospital.

JOIN THE CLUB!

The St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation is currently running a membership drive for our St. Francis Circle Monthly Giving Club.  Consider joining the club at $15/month and help us purchase equipment for our hospital!  For more information about becoming a Club Member please contact us at: 613-756-3044 ext 217

Click here to become a member of the St Francis Circle Monthly Giving Club!

If St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Valley Manor or Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care holds a special place in your heart because of a personal experience or that of a family member or friend, we would love to hear from you!

To share your story and experience, please contact us at:

St Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation

p: (613) 756-3044 ext 333
or email us at: office@sfvhfoundation.com

We are so fortunate at the Foundation to be supported by a hardworking volunteer Board of Directors. Day after day, our Board volunteers bring their passion, insight, experience and resources to the team to help us with our fundraising efforts to ensure that our healthcare organizations have the equipment they need to provide excellent care close to home!

We are proud to welcome five new directors to our board for 2022-2023. The St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation Board of Directors are pictured below, left to right, back row: SFVHF Executive Director Erin Gienow, Directors Bruce Willmer, Heather Poliquin, Lorraine Finn, Treasurer Christine Hudder, Colleen Buch, Sheilagh Dunn, Lynn Beauchamp, and Board Chair Karen Tierney (holding photo of Vice Chair Mary Conway). Pictured, sitting, left to right: Marie Finnerty, Cheryl Reid, Sean O`Dwyer, Pat Pilgrim and Jill Vermaire. 

If you are interested in making a difference for local healthcare in your community, please contact Karen Tierney at 613-756-3044 ext. 217. 

While you can choose to donate to any one of our healthcare partners, you will make the greatest impact by directing funds generally to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. This will give the Foundation the flexibility it needs to ensure funds are directed to where they are needed, and when they are needed, the most.

St. Francis Memorial Hospital

Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care

Valley Manor Long Term Care

Making an In Memoriam or Tribute donation to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation is a meaningful way to pay tribute to a loved one, friend or neighbour while giving the gift of health.

Acknowledgement of your gift is sent to the family by way of a memorial card.

You may also want to support this program by letting the funeral home know that you would wish to direct all memoriam donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.

This helps your friends and family know of your wish to support the needs of St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Madawaska Valley Hospice, & Valley Manor.

Gifts can be made at the funeral home or directly through the Foundation office as well as online. Please call the Foundation office for more information (613-756-3044 ext. 217). 

Sample Wording for Obituaries 

If you are organizing your loved one’s obituary and would like some sample wording to help direct donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, feel free to use any of the phrases below:

• In Memory of (loved one’s name) the family respectfully requests donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.
• In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation (St. Francis Memorial Hospital OR Valley Manor OR MV Hospice Palliative Care) would be appreciated

Meet some of our In Memoriam families:

GERARD O'MALLEY

Gerard O’Malley was no stranger to the local healthcare facilities in Barry’s Bay. From being admitted to St. Francis Memorial in his childhood for Type 1/Juvenile Diabetes, to a hockey accident that left him quadriplegic in 1984, Gerard established a keen respect for his local hospital.  

“For 40 years he required the professional services of this unique healthcare facility,” Gerard’s sister Joan Cybulski said. “Gerard had great admiration for the staff, services and the care he received over the years.” 

He also had a special place in his heart for the Valley Manor, since it was a place for seniors and those with disabilities to live without leaving their home community. 

When he was diagnosed with cancer, he experienced quality care from the Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative team.

Gerard made it a priority to assist St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, which raises funds for Hospital, Hospice and the Valley Manor. As co-owner at the Barry’s Bay Metro, he would support the many events and programs initiated by the Foundation. Even after he passed on February 29, 2024, Gerard had directed his family to request that in memoriam donations be made to four local charities, including the Foundation.  

He wanted donations go to the greatest need, which allows the Foundation to direct funds when and where they are needed the most.   

By doing this, and through his overwhelming generosity over the years, Gerard helped create a lasting legacy and will ensure healthcare remains local for generations to come.  

DOROTHY CORBEIL

Dorothy Corbeil of Golden Lake was a doer. As a Registered Nurse, she knew that the only way to get things done properly was to roll up your sleeves and do them yourself. Local healthcare was her passion and she wanted to ensure that residents had access to quality services and equipment. 

“She was on a mission to improve healthcare in the region and her way was to become directly involved on boards and committees and such,” her son Andre Corbeil said.  

Dorothy battled lymphoma and spent her final days at Madawaska Valley Hospice, where she was cared for by the exceptional staff and volunteers. She died December 6, 2023, “after a fulfilling and happy life” her obituary (which she wrote) read. 

“We - my brother and I - didn't choose the Foundation for donations, my mother herself did,” Andre said, touching on the fact that Dorothy thought of every last detail. “I can certainly speak to how important the hospital and hospice were to me at the end of her life and that my mother knew how important they would be when and if she should need them.” 

It was important to Dorothy to leave a lasting legacy on local healthcare. She asked that In Memoriam donations be directed to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation in her name for the greatest need at either the hospital, Valley Manor or hospice.  

“She wanted the Foundation to be the designated donation recipient because she was so proud of all you do for the community,” Andre explained. “Not just the hospital, but healthcare workers overall.” 

Asking for In Memoriam donations to go to the greatest need ensures our partners at the hospital, Valley Manor and hospice have the tools they need to offer exceptional healthcare close to home. 

It’s as simple as asking that “in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.” 

LORRAINE BRIGGS

If you ever needed a prescription filled at the Barry’s Bay pharmacy, you likely met Lorraine Briggs.  

She was the daughter of Henry J. Chapeskie and Rose C. Chapeskie and pursued a degree in pharmacy at the University of Toronto. In 1954, she opened Lorraine’s Pharmacy, the first in Barry’s Bay. Her husband Ron was also a pharmacist, who worked alongside Lorraine until his death in 1975. 

Lorraine went on to raise her six children alone, while running her pharmacy. As the children got older, she joined the Canadian Cancer Society and served as president of the local branch. It was a way of honouring her late husband.  

Her son John said his mother had a firsthand perspective on local healthcare on the community and was so very supportive of it.  

“Mom recognized that local healthcare is one of the foundations of our community,” he said. “She worked within it for 40 years and like all of us she sought the services provided by it when needed. She fully understood that supporting the health and wellbeing of her fellow citizens would be better achieved in dedicated healthcare facilities staffed with creative and empowered people.” 

She actively supported the healthcare teams operating withing the community, at the hospital and at the Valley Manor. When she passed at the age of 92 in 2022, her children wanted to honour her by dedicated In Memoriam donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.   

“Choosing Memoriam donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation upon her passing was something that we as a family knew she would support wholeheartedly,” John said. 

The family also chose to purchase a stone on the Memorial Mural to honour their late mother.  

“Her dedication to supporting the work of our healthcare teams in the community, at the hospital, and at the Valley Manor, as the town’s first pharmacist, should not be forgotten,” John said. “It was important for our family to publicly recognize her for all of her efforts by purchasing a stone on the Memorial Mural. It also serves as a reminder to all of us who follow that we need to continue with her work.” 

ROBIN MCLEAN

Robin McLean wore many hats over his lifetime; husband, dad, grandpa, business owner.   

He was raised in Combermere, eventually relocating to Toronto where he worked at various jobs. He met and married Rita Peplinskie and after a few years of city life, they decided to move back home to Combermere where they raised their two sons, Mitchell and Matthew. 

Robin became a licensed electrician and owned his own business for 40 years. During those years, he obtained his master electrician, plumber and linesman licenses. He was highly trusted and recommended by his many customers and employees. 

He enjoyed the outdoors, and was a skilled, competitive ice racer, master water skier, avid fisherman and hunter, and so much more. 

Robin was diagnosed with non-familial ALS in 2020, a disease that progressed rapidly in him causing many trips to St. Francis Memorial Hospital`s emergency department over the months.  

“As Robin’s health was quickly declining, he requested to go to Hospice,” his wife Rita said. “We were already familiar with the amazing management, staff, volunteers and home-like setting, as we spent a lot of time there with his mother, Elsie a few months earlier.” 

Rita said her husband expressed concern that she would essentially burn out if she was to look after him 24 hours a day. 

Sadly, Robin passed away on June 2, 2021. His family asked that In Memoriam donations be directed to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation for the highest priority needs.  

“We appreciated and were so grateful for every bit of help we received during this very stressful time dealing with Robin’s horrible illness that we encouraged any one that could to make a donation to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation in Robin’s memory,” Rita said. “We were overwhelmed, and very thankful to the many, many people who sent donations in his memory.” 

She said that the family will continue to support the foundation, to ensure that other families will benefit from the wonderful local healthcare services in the community. 

This beautiful mural is a depiction of the view of a landscape typical of what you might see in our local area from the eye of the artist, Donnie Burchat of Wilno. The elements on the mural are made from the many different types of wood native to this area.

Elements like leaves, ducks, stones etc. are engraved as a way of honouring or remembering someone special.   The Foundation allows for In Memoriam donations to be used by family members towards the purchase of an element in appreciation for their support of the Hospital by directing In Memoriam gifts to the hospital.

For more information and pricing, please click here to view our In Memory Mural brochure, call us at 613-756-3045 ext. 217 or drop by the Foundation office and pick up a brochure.

Meet some of our In Memory Mural families: 

RONALD LORBETSKIE

Ronald Lorbetskie of Barry’s Bay was somebody who made it a priority to help others. Married to Joyce Lorbetskie, the pair would volunteer in the Auxiliary gift shop inside St. Francis Memorial Hospital together. They enjoyed chatting with everyone who came in for appointments or visits. Ronald was also a volunteer with Meals on Wheels and the local food bank.   

The Lorbetskies knew how important local healthcare was to the community. Ronald experienced a long battle with cancer before passing away on May 7, 2022 at the age of 72. He managed to stay home as he had wished up until the last few days, where he passed at hospice.   

Joyce asked loved ones to donate to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation in memory of Ronald. The Foundation raises funds for three local healthcare partners, including Madawaska Valley Hospice, Valley Manor and St. Francis Memorial Hospital.  

“We ourselves have used the hospital many times,” Joyce said. “The staff is wonderful, and I am grateful for the treatment that Ron received in the last moments of his life.” 

As someone who loved to spend time at the hunt camp and enjoyed being outdoors, Ronald had always been interested in a duck element on the Memorial Mural inside St. Francis Memorial Hospital.  

Joyce honoured that wish by purchasing the element in her husband’s name.  

“I think it is fitting because he spent a lot of time at the hospital,” Joyce said.  

It surely was the perfect tribute to a man who gave so much to his family and his community. 

MONICA BURCHAT

Monica Burchat of Wilno had a deep love for her community. A woman of great faith, Monica was active in her parish of St. Mary’s and always enjoyed helping with the annual chicken supper fundraiser there. 

She enjoyed baking and quilting, and could be found at her parish’s Christmas craft sale, selling her knit ware and crafts. As her children put it, her doors were always open; she always had treats on hand to welcome friends and family to her home. 

“She was an easy-going private person, who always put everyone else’s needs before her own,” her son Don Burchat said. “She was an optimistic person.” 

Monica recognized the need for quality healthcare in her community, especially during after her husband Felix was admitted to St. Francis Memorial Hospital in 1993 with Stage Three cancer. 

“She saw a lot of what was going on in the weeks he was here at the hospital,” Monica’s daughter Carolyn Prince said. “She saw the excellent care that he received.” 

Monica became involved with the hospital auxiliary and frequently donated her knitted items to sell in the gift shop. 

St. Francis Memorial Hospital always felt like home to Monica, especially after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. She became nervous when she had to travel for out-of-town appointments. That all disappeared when she came back to St. Francis. 

“It was home,” Carolyn said. 

Monica passed away at the Valley Manor at the age of 83 on February 15, 2021. Her family will eternally be grateful for the quality care Monica received at St. Francis and at the Manor. 

When Felix had passed, Monica wanted to purchase an element in his name.  

“It was important for mom to get a leaf for dad because of the care he received at the hospital,” Carolyn said.  

When their mom passed, the family wanted to do the same for Monica to recognize the excellent care she received at the hospital throughout her lifetime.  

JOHN "JACK" GOLKA

The hospital held a special place in the heart of the late John “Jack” Golka. 

Although he started life as a humble dairyman delivering milk around the Valley, he eventually relocated to work in the mines.  

It was there he suffered a workplace injury that would change the trajectory of his career forever. 

John joined St. Francis Memorial Hospital first working as an orderly and eventually becoming a pharmacy technician. He was asked by Sister Rosenda Brady if he would be interested in starting the ambulance service, which he did on January 1, 1971. 

Although his healthcare career led him to other places over the years, his daughter, Joanne Truskoski, said St. Francis Memorial Hospital was always home for John and his family. John’s wife, Ursula, was born and raised in Barry’s Bay and served as a member of the hospital auxiliary.  

“I was born at St. Francis Memorial Hospital and to this day, we continue to have our health care managed by Dr. Jason Malinowski and his team,” Joanne said. “Barry’s Bay has always been home no matter where we’ve lived and our ties to the community and to the hospital have always remained strong.”  

At 84 years of age, John passed away on June 27, 2021. His family directed In Memoriam donations to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, to be used for the highest priority needs. 

“We are so proud of the quality of care provided in the hospital and we will always support its growth and further development so that it continues to be such an incredible local resource for so many,” Joanne explained.  

The family also purchased an element on the memorial wall at St. Francis Memorial Hospital, so that John’s memory will be kept alive in the hospital that meant so much to him.  

“It’s wonderful that people don’t have to leave the area for health care services because so much is available right here at home,” Joanne said.  

Tree Lighting Ceremony Honours Loved Ones This Holiday Season

On Friday, December 1st, 2023, the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation celebrated its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Railway Station in Barry’s Bay. The memorial tree was lit in honour and in memory of loved ones.

A special thanks goes out to Madawaska Valley Township for sponsoring the event, including finding, setting up and decorating the tree as well as hosting our celebration at the Railway Station. Thank you to Madawaska Coffee Co for providing the hot refreshments for the evening. A big thanks goes to the hospital dietary department for making the delicious cookies for attendees!

And thank you to Simmons Sport Horses for getting their mini horses all dolled up and sharing them with the community!

Our Hospital Choir was a hit and provided songs during the night. Thank you Sherry Kym and Stan Quesnelle for providing the sound system.

Once again, our angels returned from local elementary schools to help light the tree with our Chief Angel, Dr. Jason Malinowski.

A number of volunteers assisted with the night including Theresa Prince, Theresa Chapeskie, Sue McAllister, Donna Smith, Maxine Smaglinski and even Santa himself!

If you were unable to attend, you can watch the ceremony on our Facebook page.

Read our Tree of Lights Campaign wrap-up newsletter here!

The St. Francis Healthcare Foundation ("SFVHF") is committed to protecting the privacy of our supporters.  We value your trust and recognize that maintaining this trust requires that we be open and accountable in our treatment of the Personal Information that you choose to share with us. We do not trade, rent or sell Personal Information.

The following principles reflect our pledge to safeguard your Personal Information pursuant to this Privacy Policy.

1. We are accountable for your Personal Information
   "Personal Information" is any information about an identifiable individual. This information includes whether an individual has donated to the SFVHF, how much has been donated and an individual's private contact information. We keep the Personal Information that you provide to us in strict confidence.
   Our employees, Board Members and volunteers sign confidentiality agreements and only access Personal Information on a need-to-know basis in order to perform their job function. Safeguards are in place to ensure that Personal Information is not accessed, disclosed or shared more widely than is necessary to achieve the purpose for which it was gathered. We also take measures to ensure the integrity of this information is maintained and to prevent its being lost or destroyed. Individuals may access their Personal Information at any time to ensure that it is correct and current.
    
2. We collect, use and disclose Personal Information for the purposes that we identify to you
   We may collect information from you in the following ways:
   • Information that you provide to us;
   • Information we or our service providers collect about you from our interactions with you (for example, when you use our website or other technology); and
   • Information we obtain from third-party sources.

When the SFVHF collects Personal Information directly from individuals, the SFVHF identifies the purposes for which Personal Information is collected at or before the time of collection. These purposes include: fundraising, the administration of the donations, providing information about the activities of the Foundation and its Healthcare Partners (St. Francis Memorial Hospital Association, Valley Manor Inc., Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care), marketing, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and to ask for support in our mission to inspire individuals to support exceptional healthcare in our community.

3. We obtain your consent to collect, use or disclose your Personal Information
   We collect, use or disclose your Personal Information with your permission. Your permission may be expressed orally, in writing or may be implied, and you may provide it to us or a third party orally, electronically or in writing. You may limit or opt-out of future contact by the Foundation by contacting us at office@sfvhfoundation.com.
    
4. We limit the collection of your Personal Information
   We limit the collection of Personal Information to that which is necessary for the purposes identified. Personal Information will be collected only by fair and lawful means.
    
5. We limit the use, disclosure and retention of Personal Information
   Personal Information will not be used or disclosed for purposes other than those for which it was collected, except with consent or as required by law. Personal Information will be retained only as long as necessary for the fulfillment of those purposes. The Foundation does not trade, rent or sell any Personal Information to third parties.
   We only disclose your information to the following entities / persons unless anonymity is requested:
   • Healthcare Partners (St. Francis Memorial Hospital Association, Valley Manor Inc., Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care), on an as needed basis;
   • certain service providers that conduct activities on our behalf (as described below);
   • other registered charities when we conduct joint fundraising activities with them;
   • law enforcement or Canada Revenue Agency officials if it relates to a criminal investigation, alleged illegal activity, or as required by law; or
   • other persons, with your consent.  

Where we choose to have certain service providers conduct activities on our behalf (such as some fundraising and processing services), we select the service providers very carefully and take all reasonable precautions to ensure that the service provider protects your Personal Information.  For example, the Foundation's web pages contain online forms that allow visitors to make a donation. The personal and credit card information provided on these forms is used only to process these donations. Online donations to the Foundation may be processed through third parties.

6. Accuracy of Personal Information
   We rely on our donors to provide us with accurate Personal Information. To change or modify any Personal Information previously provided to the Foundation, write to us at: St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, PO Box 129, 7 St. Francis Memorial Drive, Barry’s Bay, ON, K0J 1B0 or send an email to office@sfvhfoundation.com.
    
7. We safeguard your Personal Information
   Personal Information is protected with security safeguards appropriate to the sensitivity of the information.  We use password protocols and secure websites to protect Personal Information we receive when an online donation is made. Our software is routinely updated to maximize protection of such information.
    
8. We are open about our privacy practices
   We make our practices relating to the management of Personal Information available to you by posting the Foundation's Privacy Policy on our website. You may request a print version of our Privacy Policy by contacting the SFVHF.
    
9. We allow you to access your Personal Information
   You may ask us whether we hold any Personal Information about you. You can see that information and ensure that it's accurate by contacting the SFVHF.
    
10. Compliance with our privacy practices
    If you are concerned about the SFVHF compliance with our Privacy Policy, please contact the SFVHF.  We will investigate all complaints. If a complaint identifies a gap in compliance, we will take appropriate steps to remedy the situation, including changing our policies and practices if necessary.  

Contacting the Foundation

Questions, comments and concerns regarding the handling of Personal Information may be directed to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, PO Box 129, 7 St. Francis Memorial Drive, Barry’s Bay, ON, K0J1B0 or an email to office@sfvhfoundation.com.

If you wish to limit or opt-out of future contact by the SFVHF, please write to us at: St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation, PO Box 129, 7 St. Francis Memorial Drive, Barry’s Bay, ON, K0J1B0 or an email to office@sfvhfoundation.com.
 

Ace of Spades found after 35 weeks on June 8, 2023!

Congratulations to Eve Barnes of Ottawa and Round Lake Centre, winner of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s Catch the Ace progressive draw – lottery 6!

Eve bought her ticket from Round Lake Centre Food Market, as she had done in the past. She chose number 28 because it was “just sitting there in the middle of the board.” Not only was her ticket picked during the Week 35 draw on June 8^th earning her the weekly prize of $2,408, she managed to find the Ace of Spades – meaning she also won the progressive jackpot of $68,038.50!  

She plans on sharing some of the funds with family and finally completing a few projects around the house. Eve said she supports the Catch the Ace draw because she already feels like a winner just purchasing tickets, as proceeds raised goes toward the purchase of medical equipment for St. Francis Memorial Hospital.

As longtime cottagers to the area, the Barnes family is grateful to have a local hospital nearby. Eve brought her daughter Tara and son Mike to the cheque presentation, and was congratulated by Catch the Ace volunteers, St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation Board members and hospital staff.

Thank you to our incredible group of Catch the Ace drivers and counters and to the vendors who sold tickets every week including: Round Lake Centre Food Market, Round Lake Country Store, AJ’s Convenience, Killaloe Hardware, Wilno Building Supply, Charlie D’s, Barry’s Bay MacEwen, the Foundation office, Valley Manor, Barry’s Bay Ultramar, Lorraine's Pharmasave, Barry’s Bay Shell, CO Country Market, The Cottage Cup, Eganville Shell, Conway’s Pharmacy, Village Discount and Variety, Ramona’s Hairstyling and Whitney Pharmacy.

Stay tuned for another round of Catch the Ace lottery – coming soon!

Here’s how the lottery works

The lottery starts with 52 playing cards individually sealed in manila envelopes numbered 1 through 52 and secured in a display case. Nobody knows which envelope contains the Ace of Spades – until the lucky winner catches it!

When tickets are purchased, supporters will be asked to pre-select an envelope number on their ticket stub.  The lucky weekly winner takes home 20% of that week’s ticket revenues and the envelope number selected on the ticket will be opened to reveal a playing card. If the card is not the Ace of Spades, the card will be destroyed and the lottery continues for another week.  If the card is the Ace of Spades, the weekly winner also wins the progressive jackpot!  The progressive jackpot grows each week with 30% of weekly ticket sales revenue being added in.

For complete rules and regulations, click the link below.

REMAINING ENVELOPES FOR LOTTERY 6 (starts Oct. 6th 2022)

WEEKLY WINNERS FOR LOTTERY 6 (First draw held Oct. 13, 2022)
Click the image below to watch the corresponding draw.

Erin Gienow; Executive Director

613-756-3044 ex 333

erin@sfvhfoundation.com

Christine Hudder; Communications and Fundraising Officer

613-756-3044 ex 217

christine@sfvhfoundation.com

Breanne Kuiack; Admin Assistant

613-756-3044 ex 217

office@sfvhfoundation.com

Allison Layman; Events and Program Coordinator

613-756-3044 ex 217

office@sfvhfoundation.com

Your Dollars At Work!

A big Thank you to our wonderful donors. It is because of your generosity that we are able to keep the best care possible close to home.

St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation Annual Report 2022-2023

We are very pleased to present our Annual Report for 2022/23.  It was an exceptional year for the Foundation – in fact, one of our best ever.  They say that when a community comes together, powerful things happen.  We are so proud of our staff team, grateful for the ongoing support of our Board and awesome team of volunteers, amazed by the generosity of our donors and very respectful of the incredible dedication of our Healthcare Partners.  We are an intricate web, and we recognize that collaboration is integral to ensuring exceptional healthcare in our community.  A heartfelt thankyou to everyone!

The SFVH Foundation raises funds to support our local healthcare organizations including St Francis Memorial Hospital, Valley Manor Long Term Care and Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care. Through your generous donations in 2022/23, we raised over ONE MILLION DOLLARS. We exceeded last year’s net revenue by $280.0K.  One of the most special moments this year was the return of in person events and activities.  It was wonderful to see the smiling faces of event participants and to feel the energy of our amazing volunteer teams.

Our Results at a Glance

We are accountable to all our stakeholders and strive to use each dollar donated efficiently and effectively.

Our Accomplishments

Highlights from our 2022/23 Annual Plan included:

• Executing a new Rockathon event for Valley Manor
• Utilizing crowdfunding as a new technique for giving
• Completing the compliance requirements under the new Ontario Not-for-profit Corporations Act
• Planning for the Emergency Department Redevelopment Campaign
• Providing support to our many successful third-party events
• Realizing record breaking results for our annual events such as Tree of Lights, Golf, Online Auction, and the Memorial Butterfly Release

Your Dollars at Work

Our Donors

Total Active Donors:            1927 (previous year 1511)

New Donors:                         582 (previous year 329) – 205 from Rockathon Event

Donor Retention Rate:        64% (Industry benchmark 45%)

Monthly Giving Club:         168 members - $73,000

Donor Appreciation Calls: 540

The Future

We believe in planning for the future healthcare needs of our partners and community.  Investment decisions and managing surplus funds are based on a five-year plan provided to us by

each of our Healthcare Partners.  A total of $1,750,000 is invested in short term GICs.  This includes dollars held in trust for Valley Manor Redevelopment, Emergency Department Redevelopment, and the Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care Program.  Surplus dollars will be allocated to our Healthcare Partners according to priority needs.

Looking ahead, we are cognizant of future purchases including a new mammography machine (~$400,000) for the Hospital and a new van to transport residents for Valley Manor. 

In 2023/24, we are committed to providing:

• $321,000 to the St Francis Memorial Hospital for an ultrasound machine, baby isolette, stretchers, bi-pap machine, vital signs monitors and more.
• $35,000 to the Valley Manor for equipment, resident activities and more.
• $40,000 to MV Hospice Palliative Care for program support. 

In addition, we will initiate the quiet phase of the Emergency Department Redevelopment Campaign, revamp our website, and continue to explore opportunities for business practice efficiencies.

Under our By-Laws, Board Directors have a maximum continuous term of 8 years.  Succession planning is key for our success.  Having served on the Board for 6 years including 5 years as Board Chair, it is time for me to step down as Board Chair.  I will remain on the Board and will continue to support the new Executive Committee and Foundation.  It has been an honour to serve as the Board Chair and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with such a professional and energetic group of Directors.  Thank you for your ongoing support and guidance.   I salute Erin and her team having worked through the pandemic with amazing results.  Her leadership and understanding the importance of building relationships with donors, volunteers and our Healthcare Partners is largely why the Foundation has been so successful.  I am forever grateful to our community of donors, volunteers, staff, and Healthcare workers and look forward to another productive year of working together.  We certainly have an awesome community. Thank you!

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured

by the compassionate actions of its members.

(Coretta Scott King)

A total of 38 teams gathered at the Homestead at Wolf Ridge Golf Course for the 19th annual Friends of St Francis Charity Golf Tournament on Friday, Sept. 1, 2023. 

Running in conjunction with the tournament was the popular online auction that wrapped up on Friday as well.  Volunteers and staff of the St Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation organized both events and were thrilled with the results.

Erin Gienow, Executive Director of the SFVHF, said proceeds from the tournament and auction will help support the needs of local healthcare, including the purchase of two digital Workstations, two stretchers, and a telemetry unit/pack for St. Francis Memorial Hospital. 

Although exact figures are still being tallied, this year’s events were very successful.

The winning foursome in the tournament was Kenny Yandernoll’s team with a score of minus 15.  Teammates included Tony Shulist, Jack Shulist and Lyle Shulist.

The putting contest was won by Jonathan Davidson, who received a gift certificate from the Ash Grove Inn for a night’s stay, dinner and breakfast. 

The following contest winners won gift certificates for Metro gift cards donated by the Barry’s Bay Metro: Brent Dalgleish and Shirley Radey (Men’s and Ladies Closest to the Line, respectively; Mike Murack (Men’s Most Accurate); Scott Gougeon (Closest to the Pin on Green); Mike Weatherbed (Men’s Most Accurate); Matthew Grys (Longest Putt); Doreen Shulist (Ladies Most Accurate); Linda Kloosterman (Closest to the Pin – Ladies); Linda Yuke (Ladies Most Accurate); and Allan Mullin (Closest to the Pin on Green – Men’s).

Brian Moore won gift cards donated by Golf Town for being Closest to the Target on Hole #5.

During dinner, Chief Operating Officer Greg McLeod thanked everyone who made the day a success, including the 152 golfers, over 125 sponsors (golf and online auction), bidders, and many volunteers. He said although it’s always nice to gather for a round of golf, the tournament has a greater purpose in that it’s raising funds which will eventually help our neighbours, friends and loved ones someday.

Those present were also entertained in the afternoon by musical guests, Dr Jason Malinowski, Amy Easton and Kirk Harber who are members of the Odd Men Out band. 

While fun was had by all, Gienow added, “we hope that everyone that contributed to the tournament and online auction know that they are making a tremendous impact on local healthcare by ensuring that our wonderful staff have the tools they need to care for us all!”

2022 Friends of St. Francis Charity Golf Tournament!

Thank you to our many sponsors who supported the 2022 Friends of St. Francis Charity Golf Tournament and Online Auction!

2021 Friends of St. Francis Charity Golf Tournament!

View the welcome video on YouTube by Clicking Here.

2020 Friends of St. Francis Virtual Charity Event!

Memories of the 2023 Memorial Butterfly Release 

More often than not, you have experienced one of our volunteers, caregivers, or staff go the extra mile to ensure either you or a loved one has just what you need.

Perhaps the receptionist has gone out of their way to help you with a phone call, the administration office assisted you to get the information you need quickly, a volunteer helped you at the door and gave you that smile you needed, or the great care staff at our healthcare organizations provided you or a family member with extra special care when you needed it most. 

We are so very proud of everyone who makes up our community's wonderful healthcare team! 

The Guardian Angel program allows you the opportunity to show your appreciation for exceptional and compassionate care in a meaningful way that helps us change and save lives by ensuring our caregivers have the equipment and facilities they need to provide you with the best possible care. 

And... Your Guardian Angel will be presented with our unique Angel pin to wear with pride. 

Your kind gift, of any size, will be used for the most urgent community needs at our healthcare sites (St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Valley Manor and MV Hospice Palliative Care. 

Nominate your Guardian Angel today by contacting the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. 

We'll ensure they know just how much they are noticed and appreciated! 

Thank you for helping keep local health care strong in our community by honouring your Guardian Angel!

Meet Some of Our Guardian Angels!

We Need Your Help! 

Click on the newsletter image below to read about our Monthly Giving Club

Meet some of our Monthly Giving Club Members! 
 

MARY-ELLEN HARRIS
As Director of Patient Care Services at St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Mary-Ellen Harris has direct experience with how important monthly giving is to the hospital. Mary-Ellen said the Foundation is a critical partner in the hospital's ability to achieve its mission of providing high-quality, patient-centered healthcare in collaboration with its partners; and its vision of being a leader in health services that are patient-centered, integrated and responsive to rural community health needs. "Without the support of the foundation and the community, SFMH would not have the state-of-the-art clinical and imaging equipment needed to respond and care for those in need of our help. The foundation ensures we have the most up-to-date, innovative, and necessary clinical and technological solutions available to our Clinical Teams. In turn, SFMH attracts and retains qualified and highly skilled staff and Physicians," Mary-Ellen explained. If you would like to join Mary-Ellen by contributing, you can start your membership on the Foundation's website by Clicking Here or give us a call at 613-756-3045 ext. 217!

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Phone: 613-756-3045 ext 217 or Email: office@sfvhfoundation.com 

Thanks to the generosity of our incredible donors, supporters and volunteers, we are thrilled to announce that together we have raised an amazing 1 MILLION DOLLARS which will help bring a new Valley Manor long-term care home to Barry’s Bay!!  Click on the image below to enlarge! 

Singing for Valley Manor

Have you got your copy yet?  This amazing CD featuring Sister Rosenda and the Kelly family is a wonderful collection of music and special tribute to Sister Rosenda.

On sale now for $20 each.  Pick up your copy today at the Valley Manor, Pharmasave or Hospital Gift Shop.

When you give a donation to the St Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation you are making an impact on local healthcare in our community, helping provide care givers from the St Francis Memorial Hospital, the Valley Manor and Madawaska Valley Hospital Palliative Care with the tools they need to look after precious patients and their families.

Over the next few years, critical priorities will include the redevelopment of Valley Manor for 90 long term care residents as well as the enhancement of the Hospital’s Emergency Department

Thank you for choosing us as a charity worthy of your support! We could not hope to do the work we do without you as our partner.

Every kind gift, no matter the size, is important to us and makes an impact on continuing to have local healthcare in our community, close to home, where we need it most.

Incorporated in 2001, our very active registered charity works in partnership with three local healthcare organizations in the Madawaska Valley to fundraise for medical equipment & services based on the long-term plans for the healthcare needs of the community.

What organizations does it serve?

The Foundation raises funds to ensure support for equipment purchases and services at:

• St. Francis Memorial Hospital (including Rainbow Valley Community Health Centre)
• Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care program
• Valley Manor Nursing Home

Many people are unaware that the government simply does not provide funding for healthcare equipment. Our local healthcare organizations rely on the generosity of the community to ensure that they have the specialized equipment and support they need to provide exceptional care.

How can I help?

There are many ways you can support the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.

• You can hold a virtual fundraising trivia night online and donate proceeds to the Foundation or even host a fundraising dinner party online!  There are so many other ideas to consider when planning your own event.  Be creative and have fun!
• If a local healthcare provider made a positive impact on your visit, recognize them with a Guardian Angel nomination!
• We are always accepting In Memoriam Donations, which is a unique & special way to honour your loved one or ask your lawyer about leaving a Gift in Your Will.  
• Consider joining our Monthly Giving Club, and spread your gift overtime throughout the year.
• One-time donations of any amount that benefit local healthcare are always appreciated!

How can I give to the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation?

There are a number of ways to help:

• For more information, or if you’d like to simply make an online donation, click here. 
• We can also be reached on the phone by calling  613-756-3045 Ext. 217 
• Gifts can also be mailed to SFVH Foundation, P.O. Box 129, 7 St. Francis Memorial Dr., Barry’s Bay, Ont., K0J 1B0.

For more information, please contact us:

St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation
Erin Gienow, Executive Director
Box 129, 7 St Francis Memorial Dr
Barry's Bay, ON KOJ 1B0

phone: (613) 756-3044, Ext. 333
email: erin@sfvhfoundation.com

Registered Charity # 89453 4817 RR0001

Event Ideas

When it comes to event ideas, the opportunities are endless. We’ve started this list to get your creative juices flowing. Feel free to use some of these ideas or make your event entirely your own!

• Garage Sale
• BBQ
• Dinner Party
• Run/Walk
• Sporting Event
• Party/Function
• Raffle
• Bake Sale
• Trivia Night
• Church Function
• Arts and Crafts Sale/Show

Tips for Event Success

1. Choose an event
2. Pick a date and time for your event
3. Get to know the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. People are more likely to donate when you can clearly articulate why a cause is important and why you need their support. Visit our website to learn more about us.
4. Form a volunteer event planning committee. If your planning committee has enough members to share tasks and a variety of skills & experience, you will have the right formula for a winning event.
5. Create a work plan (and budget if necessary – an organized event is a successful event). Be sure to research whether your event will require any special permit, licenses, and/or insurance.
6. Promote your event
7. Have a back-up plan. Make sure you have a ‘plan B’, especially if your event is dependent on factors like the weather.

Support from the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation

• Publicity and promotion via St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s social media pages including Facebook, our website, & display monitor (see below for more details)
• Recognition- We are pleased to make arrangements with local newspapers to cover the event and/or if possible be present for cheque presentations.

Donations/Tax Receipt Guidelines

• Please contact the Foundation if you have any questions regarding tax receipts. 

Publicity and Promotion

• Eye-catching flyers, tickets, & other promotional materials will help make your event a success. The correct usage of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation’s name or logo is very important to us. Foundation staff will be available to work with you to approve the use of the name and logo prior to the event or distribution of materials. All promotional materials should make clear, where applicable, that the funds are being raised in support of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation rather than by the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation.

Thank you for your interest in hosting your own fundraising event on behalf of the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation. Every little bit counts and we appreciate your efforts to help us raise money to support local healthcare in your community.

Once you have an idea for the type of event you would like to host, please contact us at

613-756-3044 ext. 217 or office@sfvhfoundation.com.

Share Your Story….We’d love to hear from you!

If the St. Francis Memorial Hospital, Madawaska Valley Hospice or Valley Manor holds a special place in your heart because of a personal experience or that of a family member or friend, we would love to hear from you!

To share your story and experience, please contact us at:

St Francis Valley Healthcare  Foundation
p: (613) 756-3044 ext 333
or email us at: office@sfvhfoundation.com

Eleanor Adams

Eleanor Adams visited the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation on July 15, 2020 to honour a very important milestone.

Just recently, she celebrated her five-year anniversary of being cancer free, which inspired her to give back to the hospital where her journey first started.

Eleanor and her husband moved to the Valley in 2013. Following a routine mammogram at St. Francis Memorial Hospital in 2015, she received the news that she had early stage breast cancer.

She underwent a mastectomy, followed by another shortly after. The procedures were a success and Eleanor was declared cancer free.

Eleanor prides her early detection at SFMH, along with the knowledgeable staff here at St. Francis, with her quick recovery. She recently made a donation to the Foundation, recognizing every year she has been cancer free.

“I am proud of our little hospital,” she said.

Eleanor’s generous gift will go towards local healthcare including the purchase of critical medical equipment for our hospital.

If you’d like to recognize a special milestone and help local healthcare, call 613-756-3045 ext. 217.

Jacqueline Goodheart: St. Francis Memorial Hospital

Jeanette Wright: Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care

Glen Henneberry: Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care

Margaret Haskin: St. Francis Memorial Hospital

Nelson Hartwick: Valley Manor

Carol Chippior: Valley Manor

Marjorie Mayhew: Valley Manor

Eleanor Stanutz: Valley Manor

Nelson & Joan Leeder

Regular donors since moving to the area many years ago, Nels and Joan Leeder made the decision to look at their investments as a way of future planning for additional support for the Hospital they both valued.

“Nels and I made conscious decision years ago to ensure that we did pre-planning of our assets.We sat down and asked ourselves….what charities are important for us to appreciate and who should benefit from our support?” Their wish to see St. Francis Memorial continue to be strong and sustainable made their decision to leave a gift of securities an easy one. “We recognized the future of this community having a Hospital, close to home. I know Nels would be pleased to know that the support we planned to leave is making a difference. For me, end of life grief was easier to bear knowing that because of our gift, life would be better for others.”

Star of Love

The following message was written by a patient of St. Francis Memorial Hospital. In honour of all who work, volunteer, visit, and have stayed as patients at SFMH, he has registered a star which he calls Star of Love. 

Name of Star: Star of Love

From The Star Registry to allat SFMH.

This star that was purchased, a star that can be seen in the night sky is for a very special Hospital. It is for all who work, visit, volunteer, or had a brief or long stay. It is also to the ones who were not so fortunate but will be remembered in the hearts and minds of those who were either family or friends.

This star is to all the staff that have made many peoples lives both better and their stay memorable and a happy one, including mine.

To the people at SFMH, may you always continue to shine bright for those in need and with just a friendly smile.

P.S. I hope you have a very bright star available so all can see it.

Mercedes the iPad Whiz

The St Francis Memorial Hospital is pleased to offer complimentary online/Wi-Fi access for patients and their families, helping them keep connected to friends, family and community news. Check out patient Mercedes Conway, who is 96 years young and a whiz with her iPad! Way to go Mercedes!!

Emergency Department: St. Francis Memorial Hospital 

Medical Unit: St. Francis Memorial Hospital 

Cardiac Rehabilitation Program: St. Francis Memorial Hospital