Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Bluewater Health Foundation (BWHF)

Bluewater Health Foundation is the official fundraising arm of Bluewater Health, the community hospital serving Sarnia–Lambton in Ontario. Established in 2003, the Foundation’s sole purpose is to generate and steward philanthropic support so that the hospital can purchase essential medical equipment, undertake capital improvements such as clinic renovations, and deliver enhanced programs for patients, staff and families. Government funding covers core operations, while the Foundation fills crucial gaps by channeling community generosity into concrete hospital priorities.

The Foundation focuses its financial support on clearly identified areas of need at Bluewater Health. These include equipment for men’s, women’s, diagnostic and family health, as well as larger redevelopment projects such as the major renovation of Bluewater Health’s Cancer Clinic. Each year, hospital and medical staff prepare a prioritized list of required equipment and technology; community donations, lotteries and special events then enable the Foundation to fund many of these items. Over time, it has provided millions of dollars in financial support to the hospital.

Beyond capital and equipment, the Foundation also helps fund patient‑centred initiatives and staff‑related programs that improve the care environment. Internal staff giving and payroll deduction campaigns allow employees and volunteers to contribute directly to projects that enhance their workplace and the services offered to patients and families.

While Bluewater Health Foundation’s funds are directed specifically to Bluewater Health, the impact extends to the broader Sarnia–Lambton community. Investments in diagnostic technology, clinical equipment and modern care spaces help reduce wait times, limit the need for patients to travel out of town, and ensure access to high‑quality care close to home. Through annual reports, news and impact stories, the Foundation highlights how community donations translate into tangible improvements across hospital departments and services.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and supported by a professional staff team responsible for development, lotteries, events and communications. It publishes annual reports that present financial results, fundraising activities and funded initiatives, demonstrating accountability to donors, partners and the hospital. Registered charity details and contact information are publicly available, reinforcing its role as a trusted local health‑care funding partner.