Women’s auxiliary, big-hearted volunteers

In 1948, the Association des Dames de charité, which was funded by donations and various activities, became known as the Dames patronnesses. In 1954, the name changed again to the Dames auxiliaires of the Lachine Hospital. In 1964, they opened a gift counter serving patients and staff, as well as visitors not wishing to arrive empty-handed. Prior to the implementation of the hospital’s social service in 1967, it was these volunteers who cared for the poor. They would, for example, distribute clothes for babies whose mothers were hospitalized and in need.

In 1968, they opened the cafetière, a café and meeting place, which became the main source of revenue for their association. Today, the Auxiliary continues to make an outstanding contribution in supporting the staff and improving the quality of life of patients.

Inauguration of the gift counter by the Lachine Hospital Women’s Auxiliary in 1964.