Edmonton students submit designs for standalone Stollery Children’s Hospital
Students from Wîhkwêntôwin School in Edmonton are creating unique designs for a new standalone Stollery Children’s Hospital as part of a fundraising initiative.
Students in grades three and four at Wîhkwêntôwin School in Edmonton have submitted imaginative designs for what they envision a standalone Stollery Children’s Hospital could look like. These creative contributions are inspired by a personal connection to the hospital, particularly by their teacher, Kara Weis, whose child's life was saved during a 40-day stay at the Stollery. Initially intended as a simple fundraiser for the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, the project developed into an opportunity for students to actively engage in the future design of the hospital, thus merging art, philanthropy, and community spirit.
The Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation has recently initiated the No Bounds campaign, which aims to raise a remarkable $1 billion to support the construction of this new facility in south Edmonton. This ambitious fundraising initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing pediatric care and expanding space and services for children and families in the region. As part of the planning process, the foundation is working to assess the size, service necessities, and infrastructure requirements that the new hospital will need to adequately support its young patients.
The students' involvement not only fosters creativity and expression but also creates awareness of the healthcare needs within their community. By giving students a voice in shaping their local hospital's future, this project emphasizes the importance of community engagement, raising funds, and understanding the vital role of healthcare facilities, particularly for children's health and well-being. The response from the students reveals a deep sense of empathy and connection to the hospital's mission, potentially inspiring future generations to contribute back to their local healthcare systems in meaningful ways.