A part of everyone’s story: Norfolk General Hospital celebrates 100 Years of Care

Simcoe, ON — For a century, Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) has been more than just a hospital—it has been a part of everyone’s story. Since opening its doors on May 20, 1925, NGH has touched the lives of thousands, offering compassionate care and life-saving treatment to patients in Norfolk County and beyond. This year, NGH proudly celebrates 100 years of dedication, innovation, and community support—alongside the 50th anniversary of the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH), a trusted provider of long-term care since 1975.

“For 100 years, Norfolk General Hospital has been at the heart of our community, providing care that has impacted generations,” said Todd Stepanuik, President and CEO of NGH. “We are also proud to celebrate 50 years of dedicated service at Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home, a place of dignity and comfort for so many. As we honour these milestones, we also look ahead. Plans for a new hospital and nursing home are underway, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Norfolk County for generations to come.”

Celebrating Our Legacy

To mark this milestone, NGH and NHNH will host a public celebration on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Norfolk County Recreation Centre – Dogwood Room in Simcoe. This drop-in event will feature guest speakers, a historical exhibit with photos and artifacts, a visual timeline of hospital milestones, and light refreshments.

The event will honour 100 years of service at NGH and 50 years at NHNH, recognizing the many individuals—past and present—who have shaped the hospital’s legacy. Former staff, physicians, volunteers, and community members are warmly invited to attend and reconnect.

“This celebration is about more than our history—it’s about the people who have made NGH what it is today,” said Stephanie Pongracz-Clarysse, Chair of the NGH Board of Directors. “For 100 years, our hospital has been sustained by the generosity of donors, the dedication of staff, and the trust of our community. As we look to the future, we remain committed to fostering healthier communities through exceptional rural healthcare, close to home. This vision will shape the next century of care, ensuring Norfolk County continues to thrive.”

A legacy of care and growth

NGH’s story began with a bold vision to create a healthcare facility that would meet the growing needs of Norfolk County. When NGH opened on May 20, 1925, it was a 23-bed, fully equipped hospital. More than 2,000 people attended the opening ceremony—a powerful testament to the community’s support. From those early days, NGH has grown into a leading healthcare provider, serving thousands of patients each year.

In 1975, the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home opened to provide compassionate long-term care to seniors and individuals in need. Today, both institutions remain essential to the region’s healthcare system.

“Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home has been a trusted part of our community for 50 years—a place where residents receive the care, respect, and support they deserve,” said Ken Robb, Chair of the NHNH Board of Directors. “We’re proud of the impact NHNH has had, and deeply grateful to the staff, volunteers, and families who make it feel like home. As we look ahead, plans for a new nursing home will ensure this legacy continues.”

Looking forward

While we celebrate our past, we are also building for the future. Plans for a new hospital and nursing home are already underway, ensuring NGH continues to deliver high-quality care for the next 100 years.

Be a part of our story

We invite community members to share their memories, explore our history, and join us for upcoming events. Visit [NGH100 Page] to discover historical milestones, event details, and how to submit your own NGH story.