Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Fondation médicale des Laurentides et des Pays-d’en-Haut

The Fondation médicale des Laurentides et des Pays-d’en-Haut is a non-profit health foundation created in 1990 to improve and support the health and well-being of the population in the Laurentides and Pays-d’en-Haut regions, as well as Saint-Donat and Notre-Dame-de-la-Merci. Its core role is to collect donations and generate revenues, then reinvest these funds in the acquisition and modernization of medical equipment for a wide network of public health institutions.

The foundation serves 33 municipalities and supports the Hôpital Laurentien in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, several CLSC, CHSLD, sampling centres, GMF clinics and health co‑operatives. Over time, more than $18 million in equipment has been acquired, and over $11 million in donations have been distributed, demonstrating a sustained, grant-like investment in the regional health system.

The primary form of support consists of purchasing and donating medical and clinical equipment to health facilities. The “Dons en équipements” section lists numerous examples: digital mammography systems, ultrasound devices, specialized mattresses, treatment tables, physiotherapy equipment, vital signs monitors, bladder scanners, pediatric and hematology equipment, and other devices that directly improve patient care.

In addition, through its property known as the “Place de la Fondation” and its thrift store “Les Trésors de la Fondation”, the organization generates rental and commercial income. All profits and the entirety of public donations are reinvested in health services and equipment for the region, allowing the foundation to cover its administrative costs and devote surplus funds entirely to its mission.

The beneficiaries are mainly public and community health institutions within the territory of the Laurentides and Pays-d’en-Haut MRCs, plus certain municipalities in Lanaudière. Points of service include hospitals, long‑term care facilities, local community service centres, medical clinics and health co‑ops. Indirectly, more than 80,000 residents of these municipalities benefit from improved access to quality care closer to home.

The foundation finances its activities through individual and corporate donations, fundraising events and earned income. Major annual benefit events include a golf tournament, gala dinners such as the Souper de la Fondation, thematic challenges and brunches. A recurring lottery (Loto-Fondation) also contributes to revenues. These activities, combined with the thrift store and rental income, feed a pool of resources that is then allocated to priority equipment purchases.

The foundation is overseen by a board of directors composed of business leaders, health professionals and community representatives. Each year, it publishes an illustrated annual review distributed to households across the 33 municipalities. This review highlights key events, fundraising activities, partnerships, and the main donations and equipment acquisitions made during the year, helping donors see the impact of their contributions.