Since 1993, the Health Services Foundation of the South Shore raised necessary funds to enhance and improve the quality of health care services and equipment at South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater and Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg.

These two hospitals are crucial to Nova Scotia’s South Shore, delivering care to approximately 100,000 people and receiving over 200,000 visits annually.

Donors can give through the Health Services Foundation to meet the needs of the hospitals; the Foundation prides itself in being accountable to its donors and its community. Gifts can be designated to a specific program or service. Assuring the wishes of a donor are carried out is a responsibility the Foundation takes very seriously.

The affairs of the Foundation are guided by a Board of Directors, composed of volunteers with diverse interests, expertise and backgrounds from various South Shore communities.

Foundations are an important part of Nova Scotia’s health system, not only for their financial support, but also for the link they provide between hospitals and the community. The relationship is based on trust, good will, and a mutual desire to help.

Mission, Vision and Values

Our Mission

The Health Services Foundation of the South Shore is a registered charity that invests in our Lunenburg County hospitals and healthcare initiatives to strengthen the well-being of our communities.

Our Vision

The Health Services Foundation of the South Shore, keeping exceptional healthcare close to home.

Our Values

We are committed to the health and well-being of our communities through ethical fundraising, exemplary stewardship, and recognition of our donors.

Janice Tanner-Ernst (Chair)
Benjamin Carver (Vice Chair)
Nick Saunders (Past Chair)
Jeff Sabean (Treasurer)
Tina Grace (Secretary)
Eric Whynot
Mildred Royer
Erica Kenny
Ben Anderson
Thomas Sullivan
Pam Kennedy
Lynn Farrell
Dr. Greg McNally
Gretchen Gerhardt
Angie Pearson
Arleen Stevens,
Executive Director

Arleen Stevens has been the Executive Director of the Health Services Foundation since 2002. Arleen comes from a fundraising background having worked for Saint Mary’s University, The IWK Foundation and The Abilities Foundation. Her role with the Health Services Foundation has expanded to include Major Gifts Development and Planned Giving.

902.543.4604 ext. 2542
Alison Clements,
Manager - Strategic Engagement

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Alison has made the South Shore her home. Joining the Health Services Foundation in 2016 as Development Officer, she is now the Manager of Strategic Engagement. She has a broadcasting background; a career that has included working for several radio stations throughout the Maritimes, including CKBW and Country 100.7.

902.521.9522
Danielle Brinson,
Finance Officer

For a love of the ocean and a connection to a vibrant community, Danielle resides in the beautiful Petite Riviere, Nova Scotia. She has joined the team in January of 2018 as Database Finance Officer – now Finance Officer. With a passion for working in the not for profit sector and meaningfully impacting community members she looks forward to serving you.

902.543.8065
Martha Marchand,
Physician Settlement & Retention Coordinator

As the new Physician Settlement and Retention Coordinator, Martha’s focus will be working with the Physician Recruiter for the South Shore to make it easy for doctors to come here and stay here!  Originally from Toronto, Martha has called the Maritimes home for almost 30 years.  Prior to joining the HSF team, she worked in the private sector in Human Resources for more than 15 years.  Her passion for supporting her community and building positive relationships makes her the right person to lead this file.

902.930.1029
Melissa Patterson,
Executive Assistant/Office Manager

Melissa joined the Health Services Foundation team in January 2021 as the Executive Assistant/Office Manager. From the Noel Shore to the South Shore, Melissa has been working with South Shore Regional Hospital for the past 16 years and recently took on this new role to help create a more positive and meaningful impact on the community that she now calls home.

902.543.8065