Volunteer Association donates $10,000 to support patient and resident care at NGH and NHNH

Photo (left to right): Lois Craig, Past President of the Volunteer Association; Todd Stepanuik, President and CEO of Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) and Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH); Betty Lavallee, President of the Volunteer Association; and Lisa Granger, Vice President, People Strategy and Chief Human Resources Officer.

(SIMCOE, ON) – A $10,000 donation from the Volunteer Association to Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH) will help put new and medical equipment directly into the hands of care teams caring for patients and residents across both organizations.

Every day, patients and residents rely on equipment that helps care teams assess conditions, deliver treatment and support recovery. While provincial funding helps support hospital operations, it does not cover all equipment needs. Community donations help ensure care teams have access to the tools they need to provide high quality care close to home.

The donation marks the Volunteer Association’s second contribution of the 2026 to 2027 fiscal year. Earlier this year, the Association donated $25,000 to support patient and resident care.

Together, the two donations bring the Association’s total contribution this fiscal year to $35,000. The money was raised through several fundraising activities, including the Coffee Kiosk, Gift Shop, Craft Group, Tag Days, annual Bakeless Bake Sale and the new Treasures and Totes fundraiser.

“Our volunteers help strengthen care at Norfolk General Hospital and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home every day,” said Kerri Emberlin, Director of Volunteer and Spiritual Care Services at Norfolk General Hospital. “Whether they are giving their time, making a donation or supporting a fundraiser, their generosity helps ensure patients and residents have access to the equipment and resources they need close to home.”

Part of the donation was raised through Treasures and Totes, a new fundraiser launched in 2026. Volunteers collected donated purses, tote bags, scarves and jewelry for sales held throughout the year, bringing together volunteers, staff and community members in support of patient and resident care.

Treasures and Totes was created following the closure of the long-running Treasure Mart, which raised more than $376,000 in support of care at NGH and NHNH over its history.

Last year, the Volunteer Association donated $120,150 to NGH, its highest annual contribution since 2017.

The Volunteer Association includes more than 250 volunteers who support NGH and NHNH through service, fundraising and patient support.

Media Contact:

Aaron Gautreau
Director of Communications and Public Relations
W: 519-426-0130 ext. 2454