Continuing the Incredible Legacy of the IWK Auxiliary — An 80-Year-Long Love Story
In 1946, a remarkable group of women who had valiantly raised funds to build spitfires during World War II, turned this trailblazing spirit toward supporting the IWK Children’s Hospital, as it was then known.
This moment marked the first chapter of a beautiful story—one that would shape the very heart and soul of the IWK. The IWK Auxiliary believed deeply that every child and every woman deserved the very best, and they embodied the true meaning of family‑centred care at the IWK.
This philosophy continues to define who the IWK is today.
Since then, the IWK Auxiliary has been woven into the fabric of the IWK itself — championing care, inspiring generosity, and carrying forward a tradition of compassion that has touched generations of families. They were always ahead of its time, never shying away from a challenge. They were steadfast supporters of the IWK, and their vision, generosity, and tireless advocacy have left a profound impact.
From donating small yet extremely impactful items, to enabling first-of-their-kind accomplishments across the country, their legacy is not only remembered but continues to guide the IWK every single day
Many may know the Auxiliary for their annual Kermesse or Fun Fair, their “Biggs & Littles” gift shop, and the Model Railway. What many may not realize is that they also funded the first Child Life playroom, built two outdoor playgrounds (there were only three in all of North America), purchased the IWK’s first transport incubator, helped establish groundbreaking projects like Read to Me!, and made the first donation to the Maritime Telehealth Network. And this list goes on!
As the IWK Auxiliary closes this chapter at the IWK, the IWK Foundation is proud to continue their legacy through the creation of the IWK Auxiliary Comfort and Care Endowment Fund.
Donations to this fund will ensure that a history as great as the IWK Auxiliary’s will live on, and that their trailblazing spirit will continue to strengthen care and shape heathier futures for generations of women, children, and families.
We invite you to support the IWK Auxiliary Comfort and Care Endowment Fund and join us in honouring the incredible impact of the IWK Auxiliary.
Together, we will build on their tradition of excellence as we write OUR next chapter in the history of the IWK.
Projects historically managed by the Auxiliary
The Elizabeth Cleveland PlayGarden
Funding to establish a Maritime Children’s TeleHealth Network
The Annual Kermesse Fun Fair
The Family Resource Library
Support to IWK Research Department ($1,100,000 since 1963)
Funding to help establish an IWK Research Scholar Program
Funding toward purchase of an MRI unit
Presents for all hospitalized children (Birthday, Christmas, Easter)
Funding to help establish a Maternal Child Health Millennium Database Program ($100,000)
Funding to support Families in Crisis
Programs historically supported by the Auxiliary
Child Life Department
IWK Mental Health Department
Kidney Dialysis Unit
New Cribs
Television/DVDs/VCRs
CD Players, Computers
IWK Model Railway
The Read to Me Program
Ward Amenities Fund
The Teen Lounge 7th Floor
Social Work Department
Rocking chairs, recliner chairs, night chairs
Clinical Investigation Unit
Metropolitan Dispensary
Aerochambers
Teen Day (CF)
Heart Talk
Metabolic Nutrition
Child and Family Days (Christmas, etc)
Spiritual Care
PKU Picnic
Pediatric Palliative Care Services
Games, Books, Toys, Toys, Toys and more Toys!!!!
Medical Equipment
Non-Medical Items
The Auxiliary Newsletter
The Elizabeth Cleveland PlayGarden
Weekly Tuesday’s Family Teas
Funding to establish a Maritime Children’s TeleHealth Network
The Annual Kermesse Fun Fair
The Family Resource Library
Support to IWK Research Department ($1,100,000 since 1963)
Funding to Establish a Care By Parent Unit
Treasure Chest Program for Child Life
Funding to help establish an IWK Research Scholar Program
Funding toward purchase of an MRI unit
Presents for all hospitalized children (Birthday, Christmas, Easter)
Funding to help establish a Maternal Child Health Millennium Database Program ($100,000)
Funding to support Families in Crisis