CORNWALL, Ontario – The Seaway Valley Community Health Centre (SVCHC) celebrated their 10th anniversary at their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, June 20, 2019.
“Ten years ago, we opened in a small office on Water St. and we had five employees start that year, we’ve grown significantly since,” said SVCHC Executive Director Debbie St. John-de Wit.
St. John-de Wit said that one of their biggest accomplishments in that time was gaining official accreditation for the SVCHC.
She went on to explain that one of her proudest achievements from the past year is the 96 per cent patient approval rating that they received in their annual patient survey.
“I’m most touched when we receive thanks from our patients, whether it be in the form of a hug, a written letter or a palliative patient calling to say their last goodbye,” she said.
Another key accomplishment of the past year according to St. John-de Wit was the move to electronic health records. For 2019, she says that one of their ongoing goals is to promote affordable and accessible oral healthcare.
Mayor Bernadette Clement praised the work of the SVCHC and their commitment to binding the wounds of the community, whether they be physical or mental.
“As Mayor of Cornwall, let me tell you that your commitment in this regard has not gone unnoticed,” she said. “You embrace and support this community with your care, with your competence and with your community partnerships.”
After their AGM guests and board members were invited to a celebration of SVCHC’s 10th anniversary which included food and live music under a tent in the parking lot.
