Launch of the 18th Northern Star Campaign: An exceptional collaboration to benefit the health of our community

Launch of the 18th Northern Star Campaign: An exceptional collaboration to benefit the health of our community

Bathurst, November 13, 2024 – The Northern Star campaign is proudly launched for its 18th edition, highlighting an exemplary collaboration between nine Vitalité Health Network foundations and UNI Financial Cooperation, a loyal partner since the first edition. Together, they join forces to support essential initiatives aimed at improving healthcare and well-being in northern New Brunswick communities.

Every year, the Northern Star becomes a shining symbol of solidarity and generosity. It’s not just a fundraising campaign, it’s a promise of support for those who need it most, a hope for our communities,” declared David Blanchard in his inaugural speech, warmly thanking participants, volunteers, donors and partners.

The Northern Star campaign embodies a true community alliance where every contribution counts and every star shines to make a difference. UNI Financial Cooperation, a key partner, is a driving force that encourages solidarity and commitment to the health of our communities.

“From the very beginning, UNI Financial Cooperation has been a proud partner of the Northern Star campaign, because we firmly believe in the importance of investing in the well-being of our communities. This collaborative project is a fine example of what is possible when we unite our efforts for a cause that is close to our hearts,” said Annie Nadeau, representative of UNI Financial Cooperation.

Thanks to ongoing collaboration with UNI Financial Cooperation and the region’s nine hospital foundations, the campaign has raised over $1.4 million since its inception in 2006, a sum that has contributed significantly to the acquisition of medical equipment in our healthcare facilities.

“The Northern Star is an important lever for our hospitals. Without such initiatives, it would have been very difficult to procure so much equipment over the past few years. I sincerely hope that donors will continue to express their generosity to this campaign, and to their foundation and hospital in the process,” says Dr. Bossé.

Among the highlights of the launch, the Fondation Hôpital de l’Enfant-Jésus of Caraquet simultaneously launched a pilot program, grateful patient program. This program aims to offer patients and their families a way to show their gratitude to the care teams and contribute directly to the development of care.

“The Grateful Patient program is an initiative that enables patients and their loved ones to show their appreciation by supporting healthcare projects that are close to their hearts,” explained David Blanchard. “We are pleased to launch this pilot project in parallel with the Northern Star campaign, which is based on the values of collaboration and caring. We hope this program will inspire and mobilize the community.”

The 2024 campaign offers many ways for citizens to get involved, whether by purchasing symbolic mini-trees starting at $2, or by making a dedication in honor of a loved one. The mini-trees, available at several points of sale, are a simple but meaningful way to help improve local healthcare.

What’s more, for a donation of $200, they can pay tribute to a loved one with a dedication, whose name will be inscribed on a Christmas ornament placed on an illuminated tree in front of the hospital of their choice. The annual tree lighting will take place on November 27 in all participating regions. The nine participating foundations are:

 

Fondation Les Amis de l’Hôpital de Tracadie (Tracadie). The evening of November 27 will be devoted to the illumination of dedicated Christmas trees, as well as figurines and community trees in the vicinity of the hospitals. The local population is invited to take part in this magical evening, a gesture demonstrating their special attachment to their healthcare establishment.

For information:

Suzanne LaPlante
Development Agent and responsible for communications
506-544-2370