Our History

About the Cumberland Health Care Foundation

The Cumberland Health Care Foundation (CHCF) was established in 1993 to support the construction of a new regional hospital for Cumberland County. Thanks to the generosity and dedication of the community, the "Above and Beyond Campaign" successfully raised $7.8 million. In 2001, the Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre (CRHCC) officially opened, replacing the Highland View Regional Hospital. Since opening its doors, CRHCC has continued to enhance health care services across the county. The Cumberland Health Care Foundation remains committed to ensuring that our hospital continues to grow and evolve to meet the community's needs for years to come.

Past Funds and Appeals

Because Every Shift is a Marathon—A Run to Support Our ER Staff

In February 2021, Dr. Janneke Gradstein ran a 42.2 km marathon shortly after retiring from the ER to support the dedicated Emergency Department staff at Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre. Inspired by the team’s endurance, she completed the run with her family joining her for 10 km relays.

The event raised funds for the Health Care Professions Recruitment and Retention Fund, which helps attract skilled healthcare professionals to Cumberland County. Thanks to community support, the run succeeded in fundraising and celebrating our hospital staff’s commitment.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Gradstein, her family, and all who contributed to this initiative!

The Chuck Linney Challenge: A Community United Through Photography

In 2017, local photographer Chuck Linney, after losing his father to lung cancer, launched the Chuck Linney Challenge to support cancer and palliative care patients in Cumberland County. He shared his sports photography collection online, allowing people to claim photos in exchange for donations to the Cumberland Health Care Foundation. The funds supported travel, nutritional supplements, and other patient needs.

A Lasting Legacy—The challenge grew quickly, with families and friends sharing the photos and contributing. Chuck’s initiative created a powerful legacy of community support and gratitude. Thank You, Chuck!

Chuck passed away in 2024, but his impact continues to inspire. We say: “Thanks, Chuck!” for all the lives you've touched.

Distinguished Service & Volunteer Awards (2000–2019)

For nearly two decades, the Cumberland Health Care Foundation has recognized outstanding individuals, businesses, and community groups through the Distinguished Service Award and the Volunteer of the Year Award. These awards were presented annually at the Foundation Dinner Event to honor those who provided exceptional service, leadership, and support to the Foundation and the broader healthcare community in Cumberland County.

While these awards have not been presented since 2019 due to the impact of COVID-19, they remain an essential part of our history. The Foundation may consider reviving them to continue recognizing exceptional contributions to health care in our community.

Although these awards are currently inactive, the Cumberland Health Care Foundation remains deeply grateful for the dedication of all past recipients. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on health care in Cumberland County. The Foundation may consider reviving these awards to continue celebrating those who make a difference in our community.