Saskatchewan Hospital New Beginnings campaign is excited to announce the Irene and Leslie Dubé Pathway to New Beginnings in recognition of their generous $1 million gift in support of mental health care in Saskatchewan. The donation from the renowned philanthropists from Saskatoon brings the New Beginnings campaign to 75% of its $8 million goal.
“Over the past decade, the Dubés have played an important role in supporting mental health initiatives across the province,” said The Battlefords MLA Herb Cox. “On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I thank them for their generosity.”
“This new Saskatchewan Hospital represents hope. Together we are building the mental health hospital patients and their families deserve,” said Les Dubé. “We hope that others will be inspired to support this essential health care facility,” said Irene Dubé.
The Irene and Leslie Dubé Pathway to New Beginnings will be the exterior corridor which welcomes visitors, patients and their families into the new Saskatchewan Hospital North Battleford (SHNB) lobby. Arriving at a hospital can be a stressful experience, and the entryway into the new SHNB will provide the first impression of the quality of care patients can expect to receive. From the beginning, the Irene and Leslie Dubé Pathway to New Beginnings will set a patient-centered tone for the rest of the hospital experience, and for overall recovery.
“From the minute patients and their families arrive at the new Saskatchewan Hospital, the groundwork will be laid for a positive experience and faster recovery,” said Scott Livingstone, Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO. “This pathway is a powerful symbol of Saskatchewan Hospital’s transformation over the past 105 years, symbolizing the advances in mental health treatment. We are so thankful to Les and Irene Dubé.”
“I continue to be inspired by Les and Irene’s leadership and tremendous generosity,” said campaign regional chair Mary Ellen Buckwold. “Their ongoing support for mental health is part of an overall remarkable philanthropic legacy and I hope it encourages others to join us.”
“Saskatchewan Hospital is the cornerstone of mental health services for those struggling with the devastating impact of mental illness. It is the only psychiatric rehabilitation hospital in the province. Unlike the past, the main goal today is to help patients recover and reintegrate back into their communities,” said Linda Shynkaruk, Director of Saskatchewan Hospital. “The new building will enhance patient treatment programs, increase the number of beds and support the use of clinical best practices and evidence-based care. The new facility will also provide a warm and welcoming environment to our most vulnerable. Thanks to the generosity of the Dubés, we are much closer to providing the medical equipment and furnishings for our patients in their new home.”
In 1993, the Dubés made the decision to focus on charitable causes in health, education, religion and poverty. The Dubés have generously supported many organizations including the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, the Lighthouse Supported Living, Ronald McDonald House of Saskatchewan, the University of Saskatchewan Health Sciences Project, the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan and Royal University Hospital Foundation in Saskatoon for the Irene and Leslie Dubé Centre for Mental Health.
The provincial government contributed $222 million for the construction cost of the new building. Additional funds are being raised to cover the costs of medical equipment and furnishings.
Corinne Bernier Delainey, Fundraising Lead
Saskatchewan Hospital New Beginnings Campaign
306-441-0592
corinne.delainey@saskhealthauthority.ca
Linda Lewis, Communications Officer
SHA North Battleford
306-446-6625 | 306-441-4248
linda.lewis@saskhealthauthority.ca