Ontario Construction News staff writer
Algoma Steel has donated $1 million for the construction of Sault Area Hospital’s residential withdrawal management facility.
The facility is being built at 145 Old Garden River Rd. in Sault Ste. Marie and will create 20 residential withdrawal management beds and safe beds in a completely renovated space.
Algoma Steel’s gift will go to finishing exterior areas, creating safe and outdoor courtyard spaces for clients, providing outdoor furniture and fixtures, and completing an accessible, covered staff entrance; enhancements that would not have otherwise been possible.
“Our team is proud to support the Sault Area Hospital in their construction of a residential withdrawal management facility,” said Michael Garcia, president and CEO of Algoma. “Our local healthcare teams do incredible work every day to positively impact the lives of the communities they serve, a cause we care passionately about given the depth of our involvement in the community and the breadth of our workers, retirees and their families.
“Our shared goal is to build a stronger, healthier community in partnership with those that can help meet that goal.”
Officials say the space would not have been possible without Algoma Steel’s support.
“This gift will ensure those receiving care at the new facility are able to do so in culturally inclusive and welcoming spaces specifically designed to support patient-centered care,” said Ila Watson, president & CEO, Sault Area Hospital. “We are pleased to partner with Algoma Steel to create a healthier and stronger community together.”
Algoma Steel approached the hospital offering support and is now the foundation’s largest corporate donor.
“They saw a need in our community, and they wanted to be part of the solution,” said Teresa Martone, executive director, Sault Area Hospital Foundation.
“As our largest corporate donor, this gift marks an incredible milestone: with this commitment, their total lifetime giving to Sault Area Hospital Foundation has now surpassed $5 million. Through their gifts, Algoma Steel has demonstrated its dedication to local care for their employees and retirees, as well as their families and community. We couldn’t be more grateful to have them as a partner.