Family CARE Grants Making Outdoor Spaces More Accessible
Published Tuesday, August 4, 2026
Heather White, a volunteer with Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and the Thunder Bay 50/50 Store, demonstrates how the new accessible picnic tables accommodate the Hospital's Staxi transport chairs.
Spending time outdoors can play an important role in healing and well-being. Thanks to funding through the Health Sciences Foundation's Family CARE Grants program, new accessible hexagon picnic tables will help create more inclusive outdoor spaces for patients, visitors, and staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.
The Family CARE (Care Advancement Recommended by Employees) Grants program supports smaller but meaningful ideas brought forward by frontline staff to enhance patient and family care. Thanks to donors and supporters of the Thunder Bay 50/50, staff are able to turn thoughtful ideas like accessible outdoor seating into reality for patients and families.
The eco-friendly tables will provide accessible seating for individuals using wheelchairs or walkers in two outdoor garden areas on the ground floor. Made from durable recycled plastic materials, the tables will create comfortable and welcoming spaces where patients and families can enjoy fresh air, share a meal, or simply spend time together outdoors.
Research has shown that access to outdoor spaces can help reduce stress and anxiety, support recovery, and improve overall well-being. By adding accessible seating options, the project helps ensure more patients and visitors can comfortably enjoy the hospital's outdoor spaces and the benefits they provide.
To see more projects funded through the program and learn how you can contribute, visit healthsciencesfoundation.ca/familycare