Oct. 18, 2007/-Today, more than 30 local Kiwanians joined Providence Care and University Hospitals Kingston Foundation staff to celebrate the unveiling of The Kiwanis Club of Kingston Gymnasium at St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital.

The renamed gymnasium honours the Kiwanis’ long-time commitment to the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation program at Providence Care’s St. Mary’s of the Lake Hospital site. The Kiwanis of Kingston championed Providence Care’s campaign in the early 1990’s to raise funds for the rehabilitation program. More than $280 thousand was raised for the program – including a donation of more than $90 thousand dollars from the Kiwanis Club of Kingston.

“This is a fitting tribute to the Kiwanis Club of Kingston,” said Cathy Dunne, President and CEO, Providence Care. “The Kiwanis are well known for their altruistic spirit and commitment to building better communities. They have helped many of our patient residents and clients in the past and will help many more in years to come. The new name of our gymnasium will be a constant reminder of their good work.”

Providence Care’s rehabilitation program is the most specialized and comprehensive in the region, treating those with spinal cord and acquired brain injuries and people recovering from stroke, amputation, orthopedic and respiratory conditions. It is also one of the busiest programs.

“The gymnasium at St. Mary’s, where most rehabilitation treatment takes place, is in constant use and the large number of patients using the machines daily increases “wear and tear” on the equipment, creating a constant need for replacements,” noted Peter Merkley, Vice Chair, University Hospitals Kingston Foundation. “This is why we are so thankful for the Kiwanis gift – it will directly help so many of our clients and patients regain their independence. “

One of Kingston’s university hospitals, Providence Care is southeastern Ontario’s leader for specialized mental health, rehabilitation, geriatrics, complex continuing and long-term care. Our 1,700 employees and more than 800 volunteers enhance the quality of life of the elderly, people coping with chronic illness, stroke survivors and those living with mental illness. Through our affiliation with Queen’s University, we are a major centre for teaching and research. For more information, visit www.providencecare.ca.

University Hospitals Kingston Foundation is the fundraising arm for Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston General Hospital and Providence Care. Created in 2005, the Foundation raises money for programs, equipment, education and research that benefit the 500,000 people in Kingston and Southeastern Ontario served by the three teaching hospitals. In 2006-2007, it raised a record-breaking $11 million for our hospitals.

To find out more about giving opportunities or to make a donation call 613-549-5452 or toll-free 866-549-5452 or go online to www.kingstonhospitalsfoundation.ca.