Role of the Interlake-Eastern Health Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The Interlake-Eastern Health Foundation (IEHF) is a regional health foundation that mobilizes community philanthropy to improve health and health care across the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority in Manitoba. The foundation raises, stewards and strategically invests donated funds to support hospitals, long-term care facilities, primary care and community health clinics, and related programs that enhance patient care close to home.
IEHF supports a wide range of needs, including capital improvements, specialized medical and patient-care equipment, program development and expansion, and recognition, retention, training and recruitment of physicians and staff. Through its Highest Priority Fund and other designated funds, the foundation directs resources to the most pressing healthcare priorities identified in partnership with the regional health authority and local communities.
Funding themes and types of support
- Facilities and equipment: Upgrades and enhancements to regional hospitals, long-term care sites and community clinics, including patient comfort improvements and specialized equipment purchases.
- Programs and new projects: Support for the advancement of health programs and innovative pilot projects that respond to emerging needs and improve quality of life for residents.
- Staff recognition and development: Initiatives that recognize, retain, train and recruit health-care providers and staff throughout the region.
- Community-led initiatives: Collaborative projects with community groups and individuals, such as outdoor spaces, patient comforts, and recreational activities for residents.
- Endowment and named funds: Endowment funds held in trust by the foundation, where only the investment income is spent, provide long-term, sustainable funding. Donors can also create named funds or support existing ones.
Publics served and impact
The foundation serves the approximately 133,800 residents of the Interlake-Eastern region, as well as seasonal visitors, by channeling donor contributions into concrete improvements in care. Investments benefit patients and families using emergency, inpatient, surgical, home care and long-term care services, along with staff who deliver that care.
Impact stories and annual reports highlight projects such as patio and outdoor space enhancements for personal care homes, comfort items for families, support for bereavement camps, and equipment that allows more services to be offered locally. IEHF positions itself as a bridge between community generosity and health system needs, ensuring that funds raised are translated into tangible benefits across the region.
Governance and granting
IEHF is governed by a volunteer board of directors with committees dedicated to areas such as policy, governance, marketing, finance, investment and granting. The granting function ensures that donated and endowed funds are allocated in line with the foundation’s mission, donor intent and the strategic priorities of the Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority, with an emphasis on equitable access to care close to home.