Patients at Blanche River Health (BRH) now have a new way to brighten their hospital stay, thanks to a thoughtful donation from Bassin For Kids. The organization specifically chose to fund Fun Centers—mobile entertainment units featuring flat-screen TVs and Nintendo Switch gaming systems—with the primary goal of bringing joy and comfort to young patients. These units are also available to other patients across BRH sites, ensuring a positive experience for everyone.

“The Fun Centers were a heartfelt choice by Bassin For Kids to enhance the hospital journey for younger patients,” said Cassandra James, Executive Director of the Blanche River Health Foundation (BRHF). “By prioritizing their needs while also benefiting others, this donation embodies the spirit of patient-centred care.”

These versatile units are accessible to young patients and their caregivers in all areas of the hospital. They’re also available to Alternate Level of Care (ALC) patients—those no longer in need of acute care but awaiting placement—providing entertainment and mental stimulation through puzzles and cognitive games. Patients and visitors in any area of the hospital, including the Emergency Department, visiting specialist clinicsinpatient units and hospice suites, can request the Fun Center by asking any nurse.

“This donation reflects the core mission of Bassin For Kids,” said Jamey Swartz, Facilities Manager at BRH and Co-Chair of the donor organization, Bassin for Kids. “We wanted to make a tangible impact on the experience of children and families during their hospital visits, and partnering with Starlight Canada to bring these units to our local hospitals was a perfect fit.”

Samantha Saudino, Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer of BRH, highlighted the importance of such contributions: “The Fun Centers transform the hospital experience, particularly for our youngest patients, by creating moments of joy and distraction during what can often be a stressful time.”

The Blanche River Health Foundation expressed deep gratitude for the donation. John Sullivan, Foundation Board Chair, emphasized, “This gift shows how local organizations can step up and directly impact the well-being of our patients. It’s a testament to the strength of our community’s generosity.”

The Foundation encourages other organizations to consider how they can support healthcare in their community. View our equipment wish list on our website at wishlist.brhfoundation.ca or contact us to explore how your donation can make a meaningful difference in patient care.

About Bassin for Kids

Bassin For Kids is a volunteer-driven organization that raises funds through an annual fishing tournament, supporting initiatives that improve the lives of children, families, and communities in Northern Ontario. By combining a passion for fishing with a commitment to giving back, Bassin For Kids has become a valued partner for local healthcare and community programs. For more information, visit bassinforkids.org.

About Blanche River Health Foundation

The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Blanche River Health hospitals in Englehart and Kirkland Lake. With limited government funding, the hospitals rely on people’s generosity to modernize facilities, improve patient care, and advance its mission to make healthcare work for you. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring essential improvements are made possible.

To continue supporting BRH, please consider donating to the BRH Foundation via:

• Cheque: Blanche River Health Foundation, 145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4
• Online: Visit brhfoundation.ca
• Your Estate Planner: Include the Foundation in your will through planned giving: legacy.brhfoundation.ca
• Lottery Tickets: Purchase Split the Pot tickets at splitthepot.ca
• Grateful Hearts Program: Honour a caregiver or staff member who made a difference by donating through grateful.brhfoundation.ca

Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more or to donate.

Pictured: 
1: Members of the Blanche River Health Foundation are joined by staff from Blanche River Health and young community members to celebrate the addition of Fun Center at Blanche River Health. The Fun Centers were generously donated by Bassin For Kids to enhance the hospital experience.

Left to right – back: Cassandra James (BRHF Executive Director), Sherry Lheureux (BRH Manager, Patient Care Services), Marcel Boisvenue (BRH Manager, Information Technology), Barbara Effenberger (BRH Vice President, Corporate Services & Chief Financial Officer), Mary Ann Mavrinac (BRHF Board Director), John Sullivan (BRHF Board Chair), BJ Fraser (BRH Technical Analyst), and Mitch Moreau (BRHF Board Director). 

Front: Quinn Roddick and Liam Fraser (volunteer youth equipment testers) and Samantha Saudino (BRH Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer).