With a transformational gift of $5 million, Intact Financial Corporation is supporting the launch of the country’s first-ever Centre of Excellence in Infectious Diseases dedicated to the health of mothers and children in vulnerable populations. Thanks to the philanthropic leadership of Charles Brindamour, Intact Financial Corporation CEO and co-chair of the Grow Beyond campaign, and Louis Gagnon, Intact Canada CEO, Intact is joining the medical revolution that’s unfolding at Sainte-Justine.
Combining a contribution of $4 million from Intact and $1 million from the Brindamour and Gagnon families, the gift supports the Intact Health Resilience Initiative, a flagship project at the heart of Canada’s first Centre of Excellence in Infectious Diseases dedicated to mother and child health. This initiative is part of a strategic partnership between CHU Sainte-Justine and the Université de Montréal (UdeM) Faculty of Medicine.
Advancing the research, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious disease
The mission of CHU Sainte-Justine and UdeM’s Centre of Excellence in Infectious Diseases is to improve access to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infectious diseases for pregnant women and premature infants from vulnerable populations.
By making scientific discoveries, creating new treatments, and training the next generation of infectious disease clinicians and researchers, it will develop preventive strategies and interventions to improve the physical and mental well-being of at-risk groups.
According to Isabelle Demers, president and CEO of CHU Sainte-Justine, the Centre of Excellence in Infectious Diseases will benefit all populations: “Despite advances in medicine and public health, there are still numerous challenges associated with infectious diseases, and they continue to grow. Thanks to Intact’s support, and by combining our cutting-edge expertise in maternal and child health with that of the Université de Montréal, the Centre will allow us to optimize our efforts in research, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infections, ultimately transforming the lives of generations.”
Philanthropy: An increasingly important driver of innovation
Philanthropy is an essential mechanism, inseparable from government support, that fosters and accelerates the discovery of innovative health care solutions.
With today’s pressing social and economic challenges—and the promising scientific and technological opportunities ahead—philanthropy is more essential than ever as a catalyst for innovation. Intact’s visionary commitment, and the exemplary generosity of the Brindamour and Gagnon families, are creating a legacy of sustainable health for our entire society and for future generations.
The CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation would like to underscore the incredible commitment of Charles Brindamour, co-chair of the Grow Beyond fundraising campaign. Since the beginning of the campaign—the largest in Sainte-Justine’s history—Mr. Brindamour has shown exceptional leadership in mobilizing the business community around the cause. We couldn’t ask for a more inspiring or impactful ambassador.
“Our support for this unique initiative demonstrates Intact’s ongoing commitment to building resilient communities and actively contributing to a brighter future. By investing in the community wellbeing in the regions where we operate—in Quebec, across Canada, and globally—we are making a concrete and lasting difference for all of society,” says Charles Brindamour, CEO, Intact Financial Corporation. “This partnership exemplifies how leading businesses, health and academic institutions can work together to address critical societal issues.”
Source : CHU Sainte-Justine Foundation
Contact :
Julie Veilleux, Director of Communications
514-345-4931, ext. 7958
jveilleux@fondationstejustine.org
In the main photo: Sophie Fouron, Dr. Jacques Michaud, Michael Pecho, Louis Gagnon, Dr. Patrick Cossette, Delphine Brodeur, Charles Brindamour, Dr. Caroline Quach-Thanh, Frédérique Le Roux © Alexandre Loyer
