Founded in 1987 by a group of devoted volunteers, the “Just for Kids” (JFK) Foundation’s mission is to purchase life-saving medical equipment for The Montreal Children’s Hospital. This May, the organization will mark a quarter century of loyal support to the Hospital and over $7 million in funds raised. These accomplishments have impacted the lives of countless young patients who have benefited from better care thanks to the JFK Foundation’s support.
“The JFK Foundation addresses a very concrete need. They provide state-of-the-art equipment that the Hospital wouldn’t be able to acquire otherwise. The result is that we have the tools to immediately offer better and faster diagnosis, and less invasive treatment for sick kids,” explains Dr. Sam Daniel, Director of ENT, one of the many departments to receive funds from the JFK Foundation. The impact of JFK’s contribution can be felt by staff and patients all over the Hospital, from the Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units, to the Dentistry Clinic, to Ambulatory Services that reach patients in their own homes.
One of the JFK Foundation’s strengths has without a doubt been its events, which continue to grow annually. Last fall, the second edition of the JFK Glee High School Showdown pitted nine Montreal high schools against one another in a song and dance competition. More recently the ever popular “Dancing with the Stars” event went Studio 54 for its theme. “Our volunteers work tirelessly to produce current and innovative events that appeal to diverse audiences,” explains Lisa Steinberg, current President of the JFK Foundation and a loyal volunteer over the last nine years. “I think the key to our success has been the partnership between our committed volunteers and our generous donors.”
The Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation salutes the work of the JFK Foundation over the last 25 years. “The JFK Foundation believes that every child has a right to the best care available,” explains The Children’s Foundation’s President Marie-Josée Gariépy. “In this regard we share a common vision and we look forward to continue working alongside the JFK Foundation, reaching our mutual goals together.”
- ENT specialist Dr. Melvin Schloss uses a pediatric rhino laryngoscope, one of many tools purchased by the JFK Foundation. Having the latest equipment means that specialists like Dr. Schloss can more effectively do their job while patients like 2-year-old Alexander receive less invasive procedures.
