Mackenzie Health Foundation raises almost $1.5 million

Yorkregion.com
Nov. 9, 2022
Kyle Marshall

Mackenzie Health Foundation’s Ultimate Gala raised $1.45 million in one night in support of Mackenzie Health. It was the first in-person gala in two years due of the pandemic.

Funds raised will help guarantee a steady flow of resources will always be available to bring in the best talent, improve excellence in programs and services, and secure the latest equipment and technology Mackenzie Health will need.

Mackenzie Health is a regional health-care provider that, along with other community-based locations, includes Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital and Mackenzie Richmond Hill Hospital, both with a full-service emergency department, core services such as surgery, medicine and critical care along with specialized programs.

“We couldn’t have reached our campaign milestone without the incredible support and generosity of our community of donors,” said Luci Anderson, interim president and CEO of Mackenzie Health Foundation.

“The Ultimate Gala is a celebration of the dedication of our donors, volunteers and community members for their commitment to making the ultimate in health-care possible.”

With the help of more than 15,000 donors over the years, Mackenzie Health has been able to build and equip its hospitals and enhance care. The now two-hospital organization has increased access to state-of-the-art health care for the residents of western York Region and beyond.

This year’s live auction featured an equipment appeal that raised more than $185,000 to help purchase new ventilators and further fundraising efforts will ensure continued investment in the work taking place at Mackenzie Health’s two hospitals and other locations.

“I’ve seen the very best of what humanity has to offer. An understanding that we’re in this together, that we share a common goal and a common purpose,” said Vaughan Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua, chair of the Ultimate campaign. “This experience had taught all of us what can be achieved if you believe in the art of the possible.”