Believe in the Magic of Giving is Back!

The Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) Foundation is proud to announce the return of its annual holiday campaign, “Believe in the Magic of Giving.” This year, the campaign celebrates the incredible community support that continues to transform healthcare in the Highlands —, and calls on donors to help meet growing needs close to home.

A Year of Milestones — and Momentum

Thanks to extraordinary community generosity, the new Diagnostic Imaging wing at HHHS is almost complete — funded 100% by the community. This investment brings state-of-the-art technology to the County, reducing travel for imaging services and freeing up space for a new, dedicated mental health room in the Emergency Department.

“The new CT Scanner is not only improving care but also helping us attract skilled professionals and strengthen rural healthcare,” said Jennifer Burns West, HHHS Interim President and CEO. “It’s a shining example of how investing in equipment means investing in our community.”

Meeting Growing Needs in Our Own Backyard

While infrastructure advances are helping HHHS evolve toward a model of excellence in rural healthcare, the need for community support has never been greater. 

The number of Meals on Wheels subsidies provided by HHHS has doubled in less than a year. Last year alone, the Foundation helped deliver more than 10,000 meals to vulnerable neighbours across the County — providing comfort, care, and connection. This year, demand continues to rise, and the Foundation aims to do even more.

In Long-Term Care, residents now benefit from MealSuite, an innovative nutrition system that tailors meals to individual dietary needs in real time – made possible through donor support. This system allows for advanced meal customization, while freeing up staff from manual meal planning, allowing them more time to engage meaningfully with residents.

Double the Fun this Season!

The HHHSF 50/50 Lottery is doubling up for November and December, giving players two months of chances to win — and twice the opportunity to support local healthcare. This special Double Month Draw is proudly driven by Minden Subaru, whose generous community spirit is helping make this season’s lottery one to remember. Every ticket purchased is an investment in local healthcare. Our local 50/50 is a fun and easy way for our community to give back — and with double the draws, it’s the perfect time to play!
Tickets are available now at hhhsf5050.ca, with proceeds directly supporting essential equipment and programs at Haliburton Highlands Health Services.

A Story of Impact: Don and Anne’s Journey

For longtime residents Don and Anne, community-supported programs have made all the difference.

When Don’s cancer treatments became more intensive, the couple faced a daunting challenge — long drives for radiation appointments were becoming impossible. That changed when they discovered HHHS Community Support Services’ medically necessary transportation program.

“Once we spoke with the intake team, we learned we qualified for the subsidy,” Anne said. “We had our first ride booked before the end of the meeting.” In September alone, Don made seven trips to Peterborough and one to Oshawa for treatment — each costing just $25 thanks to donor-funded subsidies.

“It’s been really good,” Don shared. “It’s taken the pressure off both of us. Now we’re dropped right at the door, and we have marvelous volunteers. This program means so much to people like us who want to stay independent.”
Last year, the Foundation subsidized over 10,000 kilometres of medically necessary travel. With community support, even more patients like Don will access the care they need safely and affordably.

This is the Magic of Giving

Every donation to the HHHS Foundation directly supports local programs and services that strengthen rural healthcare, enhance quality of life for seniors, and help neighbours in need.

“Together, we’re building a healthier, more compassionate community,” said Foundation Executive Director, Melanie Klodt Wong. “That’s the magic of giving.”

To make a donation or learn more, visit www.hhhs.ca/foundation or contact the HHHS Foundation at 705-457-1580