The future of healthcare in Wallaceburg took centre stage on Thursday, April 24, 2025 as Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF), in partnership with Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA), officially launched the $9-million ‘Our Hospital, Our Future’ Wallaceburg Redevelopment campaign at a special event held at CKHA’s Wallaceburg Site.
During the event, local leaders, healthcare advocates, and community champions gathered to celebrate the strength and resilience of the Wallaceburg community and the exciting future that lies ahead for its beloved hospital.
“This hospital isn’t just a building — it’s an important part of the history of this community, and today we celebrate that history while also looking ahead towards a bright future for healthcare here in Wallaceburg and across Chatham-Kent,” said Christine Mitchell, President & CEO of CKHAF, in a media release.
“This is a celebration of progress, rebirth, and transformation, as this project will ensure that high-quality care is here to stay in Wallaceburg for decades to come. This has been made possible by the tireless work of so many people, and it all boils down to the love that we share for Wallaceburg.”
During the event, Adam Topp, President & CEO of CKHA, unveiled all-new architectural renderings, floor plans, and design updates that bring to life the 20,000 square foot addition that will be built where the Emergency Department parking lot is currently located.
The hospital’s modern interior will be based upon principles of exemplary care, wellness-centred design, community integration, connection to nature, equity, and accessibility, Foundation officials say.
“These plans and renderings are the result of thoughtful planning, collaboration, and a real commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of the Wallaceburg community,” Topp stated.
“Seeing these designs come to life is exciting — because they reflect not only the future of healthcare delivery, but also the care, accessibility, and comfort that our patients and families deserve. This redevelopment is so important to this community because it will ensure that this site can provide exceptional care for decades to come.”
The Wallaceburg Site Redevelopment Project has already reached a series of major milestones in recent years.
This includes the completion of the Replacement Power Plant in 2022, made possible through a $7.3-million investment from the Government of Ontario in 2020, and the opening of a new Medical Daycare facility in 2023.
Also in 2023, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent made a $4.5-million pledge toward the project, demonstrating their strong support for local healthcare and the Wallaceburg region.
The importance of community support for the project was a recurring theme throughout the event, with recognition given to key supporters including the Sydenham District Hospital Auxiliary, which generously pledged $100,000 toward the project in early 2024, Foundation officials added.
“This has always been a community with a big heart, deep roots and bold ambitions, and this hospital has stood as a symbol of the strength and care that defines Wallaceburg,” added Bob Hockney, Board Chair of CKHAF.
“The launch of this campaign marks an important milestone in ensuring that this crucial facility remains part of the fabric of this community for generations to come, and we’re honoured to see the incredible support that is already helping make this vision a reality.”
To meet the growing needs of healthcare delivery in the region, the Wallaceburg Redevelopment campaign will support the modernization and redevelopment of CKHA’s Wallaceburg Site.
Foundation officials say the site will continue to focus on the community’s emerging needs, anchored by the following services:
– 24 hour Emergency Department
– 6 inpatient beds adjacent to the Emergency Department, with one designated for Palliative care
– Ambulatory Care, including specialty clinics
– Diagnostic Imaging, including x-ray and ultrasound
– Respiratory therapy
– Physiotherapy
– Laboratory services (Point of Care testing)
With the campaign now underway, Foundation and hospital representatives emphasized the ongoing need for donor support from across Chatham-Kent to bring this transformative project to life.
Donations can be made online any time at www.lovewallaceburg.ca, over the phone at 519-436-2538, or in person at the Foundation offices in Wallaceburg and Chatham.
More information about the Wallaceburg Site Redevelopment project – including renderings and floor plans – can also be found at www.ourhospitalourfuture.com.
