For over 50 years, Sault Area Hospital Foundation (SAHF) has been bridging the gap between public funding and healthcare needs – yet so many in the Algoma District don’t know how funds donated to the Foundation are supporting local healthcare. Teresa Martone, Executive Director of SAHF, is passionate about deepening the understanding of the critical role SAHF plays in outstanding healthcare available in Algoma.
"Medical equipment isn't a one-time purchase for a hospital. It's a continuous investment," she says. "While the province funds day-to-day operations of our hospital, our generous community funds the purchase of equipment. Everything from patient beds, to our brand new $3.2 million MRI are funded through community donations! With most medical equipment lasting 7-10 years, we have to be in a constant cycle of upgrade and replacement."
As she points out, this ongoing investment is not just about keeping the hospital’s equipment up-to-date. It’s about providing the best possible care for patients at all times. "Staying current with medical advances means we can diagnose quickly and accurately, treat effectively, and provide our patients with the highest standards of care," Martone adds.
While some equipment funded entirely by donors is visible, like beds and IV pumps, many other pieces are behind-the-scenes tools that the public may never see. "We’ve invested heavily into our onsite laboratory in the last few years. The lab is the brain of our hospital – analyzing samples, and providing critical insights. New tools help our team produce quick, accurate results. A quicker result may mean getting to a diagnosis and a treatment faster. It can also reduce anxiety or discomfort for patients, and in some cases can be life-saving," she says.
To maintain its commitment to healthcare excellence, SAHF has an ongoing need to raise approximately $5 million annually for medical equipment.
“As far as I know, that’s the highest fundraising target of any charity is Sault Ste. Marie,” Martone notes. Here, Martone emphasizes the pivotal role of the community. "As a community, giving is our way to influence the care available at our hospital," she observes. "This isn’t just about purchasing new equipment – these tools can help make care safer, faster, and more comfortable for patients and staff. They can expand the services offered locally. They help us recruit new care providers to our community. This has a fundamental impact on care at Sault Area Hospital."
While the goal may seem daunting, according to Martone, every dollar received by SAHF holds profound meaning. "Each donation to SAHF is more than financial assistance. It's a vote of confidence in our hospital and our mission. It's an investment in the health of our community and in a future where the best possible care is always within reach," she elaborates.
Ending her discussion on a hopeful note, Martone extends an invitation to everyone to join SAHF in making outstanding care possible at Sault Area Hospital.
"With your support, we can ensure a healthier future for the Algoma district and prove that, in our community, everyone has a role to play in health and healing."