The Canadian Shriners Hospital: One Hundred Years, Countless Transformed Lives

© Best Version Media Charity Spotlight The Canadian Shriners Hospital: One Hundred Years, Countless Transformed Lives By Ashley Foley Local Legends with Big Hearts The Rameses Shriners have been spreading smiles and lending hands in Ontario over the years. They are on the quest to be They do not have laser eyes, supernatural strength, or secret the premier fraternal organization for men of good character, lairs (unless you count the Shrine Centre). They may not leap tall fostering self-improvement based on the Masonic principles buildings or fly through the sky, but the Shriners are superheroes of brotherly love, relief, and truth while providing attractive, in every sense of the word. Their mission? Delivering hope, quality services for their members, families, and friends in a healing, and high-fives to kids—no masks, no capes, just heart. spirit of fun, fellowship, and social camaraderie in support of their philanthropy, the Shriners Hospital for Children. And in 2025, these everyday legends are celebrating something epic: the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Shriners Hospital. In a world full of challenges, the Shriners are proof that kindness, For a full century, they have been transforming lives and offering community, and a bit of whimsy can go a long way. So, here is to world-class medical care to children. No bills, no barriers—just 100 years of heart, hustle, and happy kids—and to the next 100 the kind of superpower every family wishes for. From Canada to being just as unforgettable! beyond, the Shriners have truly built a legacy that would make even Superman proud. The Shriners are known for being a fun-loving bunch, but their purpose is no joke. As part of the larger Shriners International network—with over 200 Shrine Centres across North and South America—these heroes have helped more than 1.6 million children receive medical care. And no, there was never a bill for these families. Not Just a Hospital—A Hub of Hope The crown jewel of their Canadian efforts? The Canadian Shrine Hospital, the flagship orthopaedic hospital of the entire Shrine system. It opened its doors 100 years ago and has since grown into a powerhouse of paediatric care. It is not just a hospital—it is a research centre, a teaching facility, and a place where kids walk in with serious health challenges and walk out stronger, healthier, and often smiling. The Shriners currently have 12 hospitals and over 125 locations providing services, including clinics, outreach centres, and partner hospitals. One exciting new addition is the Rare Bone Disease Clinic at the London Health Sciences Centre. In partnership with McGill University, the Canadian Shrine Hospital also helps train future doctors and breaks ground on medical research at the same time. So, yes—while the Shriners are busy spreading joy in the community, they are also pushing medical science forward behind the scenes. A Toast to Ten Decades Like any good birthday bash, the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Shriners Hospital comes with a packed schedule of celebrations. Things kicked off on February 18th, marking the date of the hospital's first patient visit way back in 1925. benjiscoffeebar.ca Next up was a public open house on May 17th, giving folks a chance to tour the hospital, meet the team, and see exactly 29 Market St, Belleville where the magic happens. Then comes the grand finale: a benjiscoffeebar@gmail.com fundraising gala on October 4th, where supporters from across the country will gather to toast 100 years of care and @benjiscoffeebar raise funds for the next 100. 14 NORTH BELLEVILLE LIVING