Each year, more than 50,000 patients receive care at one of five St. Michael’s Hospital Family Practice sites, accounting for more than 160,000 patient visits. Many of our patients have little or no income and are struggling with serious illnesses while also trying to make ends meet. Affording simple everyday items can prove to be a challenge.

As health care providers, we are dedicated to keeping our patients healthy. But they cannot remain healthy by clinical care alone - we need your help.

Since 1997, the Department of Family and Community Medicine has committed itself to supporting our most vulnerable patients by raising money for the Laurie Malone Patient Comfort Fund. With higher costs of many basic daily necessities, the challenges have been increasing for many of our patients and their families. Through the generosity of donors such as yourselves, our Patient Comfort Fund has been able to support numerous needs of those most challenged. We have helped our patients in many significant ways, including:

  • Grocery cards for food
  • Assistance with the costs of essential medications, eye glasses, dental care & dentures
  • Phones and tablets to keep patients connected
  • TTC tokens for travel to appointments
  • Providing rent assistance to avoid eviction
  • Baby care equipment to new parents including car seats, clothing & strollers
  • Books and care packages for families during the holidays

Annually, the department spends over $55,000 to support hundreds of patients in need. However, since the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise in inflation rates, we have seen the needs increase by 75%, most predominantly in the need for grocery cards for food.

The feedback from patients and families we have supported has been incredibly positive. Even the relatively smallest items can have great impacts on the lives of those we can assist. Many are extremely appreciative for the support and advocacy provided, enabling them to continue working towards improving their overall health outcomes.

100% of funds raised go directly to our patients’ needs.


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