Headwaters Health Care Centre says financial contributions from area churches and faith communities to the hospital's Pastoral Care Program over the past eight years have reached the $100,000 mark.

"As a patient-centred hospital, Headwaters affirms the right of all patients to care that considers physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional needs," said Headwaters president and CEO. "Thanks to the generosity of local faith communities we are able to support the spiritual needs of all our patient."

In 2001, the Pastoral Care Committee including volunteer chaplains and local clergy, lobbied to hire a part-time pastoral coordinator. The shared funding agreement enabled the hospital to hire Rev. Barbara Moulton in 2002, to manage the program.

"The various churches within the catchment areas of the hospital sites in Orangeville and Shelburne have been constant sources of the shared funding for pastoral care," said Rev. Ronald Pincoe, Chair of the Pastoral Care Committee. "Their continuing support has been vital in maintaining the excellent level of pastoral care provided to patients by the Reverend Barbara Moulton and her team of volunteer chaplains."

The pastoral care team provides non-denominational spiritual and religious care to all patients, their families, staff and volunteers at Headwaters, regardless of faith or creed. The pastoral care team can provide counselling, caring presence, rituals, advocacy, and assist with coping strategies.

The public is invited to provide comments and suggestions about hospital services. Please contact Cholly Boland, President and CEO, Headwaters Health Care Centre at 519- 941-2702 ext. 2200.