Role of the Rivière-du-Loup Health Foundation in the funding ecosystem
The Rivière-du-Loup Health Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to supporting the health of the population from early life through to older age. It acts as a key philanthropic partner of the CISSS du Bas‑Saint‑Laurent for the 14 health and social services installations in the Rivière‑du‑Loup area, including the Centre hospitalier régional du Grand‑Portage, CHSLD, CLSC, rehabilitation centres and youth centre.
Since 1987, the foundation reports having paid out more than $7.6 million to improve access to quality care. Funds raised are invested directly in health projects and equipment such as diagnostic and monitoring devices, oncology and dialysis equipment, geriatric and rehabilitation tools, and comfort and dignity enhancements for patients in hospital and long-term care.
Main funding activities and programs
The foundation runs major recurring fundraising campaigns, notably the Annual Campaign and the Christmas Campaign, complemented by flagship events such as Loto santé, Golf en santé Hôtel Levesque, the Combat des chefs and a radio-thon. Each drive is usually linked to clearly defined objectives: for example, redesigning the oncology department, acquiring interactive Obie game systems for CHSLD residents, buying specialized stretchers, CPAP and Stellar devices for sleep apnea, or purchasing a plethysmograph and other advanced diagnostic tools.
Beyond major medical equipment, the foundation also finances smaller but high‑impact projects: assistive technology for people with disabilities, Braille embossers and software, adapted flotation equipment for rehabilitation in pools, specialized walkers and positioning systems for children with special needs, and equipment for clinics such as family planning and ITSS services. These investments are often made in collaboration with corporate and community partners and other foundations.
Beneficiaries, impact and transparency
The primary beneficiaries are patients and users of the CISSS du Bas‑Saint‑Laurent’s Rivière‑du‑Loup installations, including children, families, seniors, and people living with chronic illness, disabilities or cancer. The foundation highlights impacts such as reduced waiting times, faster and more accurate diagnoses, the development of new local services, the ability to treat patients close to home, and improved comfort and dignity.
For accountability, the organization publishes detailed annual reports and an annual newsletter outlining amounts raised, funded projects and equipment, and major partnerships. It also maintains a "Nos réalisations" section with concrete examples and a downloadable list of all equipment financed since its inception.
Mission, values and partnerships
Its mission is to accompany, support and contribute to the health of all generations by preserving, consolidating and developing health projects in the region. The foundation emphasizes values of engagement, listening, respect, dynamism and recognition toward donors, volunteers, healthcare staff and partners.
A large network of donors and partners — including individuals, local businesses and other foundations — co-funds various initiatives. Through this ecosystem, the Rivière-du-Loup Health Foundation plays a central role in complementing public funding and ensuring that local facilities have access to up‑to‑date equipment and innovative health projects.