‘Incredibly close to my heart’: Ball raises $25K for Northumberland Hills Hospital

Funds raised to help with equipment like neonatal warmers, delivery carts

Organizers of this year’s ‘Northumberland Ball’ event are seen here with NHH Foundation CEO Rhonda Cunningham celebrating a $25,500 donation to help with high-priority equipment needs in the maternal child care unit. /NHH Foundation photo

By editor/reporter Sarah Hyatt

“A Night in Emerald City” has translated to a major $25,000 win for Northumberland families relying on the hospital’s maternal child care unit.

The tally is in from the “Northumberland Ball – A Night in Emerald City” fundraiser held at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn and Convention Centre on July 10, and a staggering $25,500 was raised to help with high-priority equipment needs for the unit, including neonatal warmers and delivery carts, a Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation spokesperson told the Independent.

The foundation said this critical fundraiser proved “there’s no place like community” after announcing the final tally raised on Wednesday, Aug. 5.

The fundraiser was made possible thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers and event organizers, the support of attendees, as well as sponsors and community partners who rallied to help Northumberland Hills Hospital, and ultimately, their community.

“As a mother of three children, all of whom were born at NHH, supporting the maternal child

care unit is a cause that is incredibly close to my heart,” said Heather Brown, on behalf of the

organizing committee. “That unit holds so many special memories for my family and many

others, and we are so fortunate to have such an exceptional hospital serving our community.”

This fundraiser has become a cherished tradition for many families locally, the foundation noted, adding the 2026 planning committee also welcomed new and returning members who mixed fresh ideas and long-time favourite components to make this year’s ball an incredible success.   

“It was an honour to join Katie and Jenna Traugott in expanding the committee this year,

alongside Julie Powell and Carly Wardle, to continue this wonderful tradition,” added Brown.

“We hope every family left with memories they’ll treasure for years to come while knowing their attendance has helped support local healthcare for future generations.”

Courtney Ker, manager of community giving with the hospital foundation, has also said the team is incredibly grateful to the organizing committee and everyone who came together in support of the hospital.

“Third-party fundraisers such as this help to fund essential medical equipment and technology at

our hospital,” explained Ker. “This event goes beyond one evening of family fun – its impact will make a lasting difference for patients of the maternal child care unit for years to come.”

To learn more about the foundation, visit www.NHHFoundation.ca.