Behind the hospital walls at the McGill University Health Centre, some patients are facing challenges that go far beyond medical treatment.
Staff say patients undergoing chemotherapy or recovering from major surgeries are increasingly struggling to afford everyday essentials such as food, medication and warm winter clothing, needs that can directly affect their recovery.
To help fill those gaps, the MUHC Foundation and MUHC Social Services held a small distribution of donated items Monday morning at the Glen site. Community members, hospital staff and partner organizations gathered to pass along much-needed supplies to social services teams who work directly with patients.
Social workers say the need is growing, particularly as the cost of living rises, and many patients are hesitant to ask for help. Donations from the community help ensure patients can focus on healing, not on how they will afford their next meal or prescription.
Hospital staff say the initiative is a reminder that recovery often depends on support outside the hospital bed.
