Ontario Construction News staff writer
Robert Merkley, CEO of Merkley Supply Ltd., is calling on the Ottawa community to help build the future of patient care, pledging to match donations up to $1 million for The Ottawa Hospital until Dec. 31.
Merkley Supply, founded more than 125 years ago as Merkley Brothers Limited, has been a cornerstone of Ottawa’s construction industry. Under Robert Merkley’s leadership since 1982, the company has not only supplied the materials that shape the city’s buildings but has extended that same vision to healthcare.
“True giving goes beyond writing a cheque. It’s about rolling up our sleeves, inspiring others, and leading by example,” Merkley said. “If we want world-class healthcare, research, and facilities, it’s up to us to make it happen — our community deserves it.”
Merkley’s support of The Ottawa Hospital (TOH) spans decades. In 2010, he co-founded THE RIDE, a cycling fundraiser for cancer research, which has raised more than $14 million. He also chaired the Legacy Campaign Committee in 2003, raising $100 million for the Civic Campus Emergency Department and new medical equipment, and co-led the 2008 20-20 Campaign for a new cancer centre.
In 2014, Dr. John Bell, senior scientist in cancer therapeutics, named his oncolytic virus lab the Merkley Supply Bay in recognition of Merkley’s support, where pioneering cancer research continues today.
“When he’s committed to a project, he’s a force to be reckoned with, rallying the community and inspiring others to join him. We’re fortunate to have his support,” said Tim Kluke, President and CEO of The Ottawa Hospital Foundation.
With the year-end matching initiative, every donation made by the public will be doubled, creating what Merkley describes as “bricks in the foundation of our future.” The campaign aims to accelerate patient care, research, and innovation, ensuring Ottawa’s hospitals remain a source of world-class healthcare.
For more information on contributing and having your donation matched, visit The Ottawa Hospital Foundation website.