Hyundai Hope On Wheels Contributes $250,000 To IWK Foundation For Enhanced Paediatric Cancer Care
A $250,000 donation is set to enhance hematology and oncology care at IWK Health, a key provider of specialised services for children and youth in the Maritime provinces. IWK Health stands as one of two paediatric tertiary hospitals in Atlantic Canada. Nearly all young cancer patients in the Maritimes receive their diagnosis and initial treatment at this facility.
The donation is part of Hyundai Hope on Wheels' $4 million pledge for 2025, aimed at supporting paediatric oncology centres across Canada. This marks the beginning of an ongoing effort to improve treatment options for young cancer patients. The initiative was highlighted during a special event in Halifax, where Hyundai Hope on Wheels held its fourth Handprint Ceremony of the year at IWK Health.
Hyundai Hope on Wheels, established as a non-profit in Canada this year, focuses on supporting paediatric cancer care and research while raising awareness about childhood cancer. This donation to IWK is part of a broader commitment from Hyundai Hope on Wheels to fund research and care for young cancer patients across the country.
Jennifer Gillivan, president and CEO of IWK Foundation, expressed gratitude: "We are so grateful for Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ generous donation to support paediatric oncology and hematology care at IWK Health." She emphasised that this partnership will help ensure children and youth have the best chance for a healthy future.
The Handprint Ceremony is a signature event by Hyundai Hope on Wheels. It invites children and families affected by cancer to leave their handprints on the Hyundai Hope car. This act symbolises shared strength and resilience in battling paediatric cancer. Representatives from Hyundai Canada, IWK Foundation, IWK Health staff, and patient ambassadors attended the event to show their support.
Jessica Todd, director of sales at Hyundai Canada, remarked: "As we continue our journey across Canada, it’s inspiring to see the impact of each Handprint Ceremony." She acknowledged the honour of standing alongside medical professionals at IWK and courageous young patients working towards a future free of childhood cancer.
IWK Health's Role in Paediatric Care
As part of the Atlantic Provinces Hematology/Oncology Network (APPHON), IWK Health collaborates with local hospitals to provide ongoing care close to home for patients and families. Each year, IWK handles approximately 3,500 hematology/oncology clinic visits and 500 hospital admissions related to these conditions.
The facility also follows around 340 childhood cancer survivors through its long-term follow-up clinic. The team at IWK works closely with local hospitals ensuring continuous care for patients as near home as possible.
About the Organisations Involved
The IWK Foundation champions excellence in women's and children's health by partnering with IWK Health to deliver quality care across the Maritime Provinces. Last year alone, donors contributed over $25.2 million towards urgent care priorities at IWK.
Hyundai Hope on Wheels began its mission in 1998 in the U.S., becoming one of the largest non-profit funders of paediatric cancer research there. In Canada, funding comes from Hyundai Auto Canada and its network of over 226 dealers nationwide.
This collaboration between Hyundai Hope on Wheels and IWK Health signifies a significant step towards enhancing paediatric oncology care in Atlantic Canada. By supporting research and treatment initiatives, both organisations aim to improve outcomes for young patients battling cancer across the region.


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