May 26, 2025 – St. John’s, N.L. – Elegance and impact converged on Sunday, May 25, as the Health Care Foundation hosted its 17th annual Brunch with the Bags™, raising a record-breaking $158,220 in support of women’s health care in Newfoundland and Labrador. Held at the Delta Hotels St. John’s Conference Centre, the sold-out event welcomed more than 300 guests for an afternoon of live entertainment, a three-course brunch, and exclusive opportunities to win or purchase more than 100 generously donated handbags, luxury items, and curated packages— all in support of a vital cause.
Proceeds from this year’s event will support the introduction of robotic-assisted surgery in Newfoundland and Labrador, with a primary focus on gynecologic oncology. This advanced technology represents a transformative step forward in surgical care, enabling greater precision, faster recovery, and improved outcomes for women facing complex cancer diagnoses.
“The continued success of Brunch with the Bags™ speaks to the power of community,” said Paul Snow, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Health Care Foundation. “Thanks to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests, we are not only expanding access to innovation; we are redefining how care is delivered to women throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
The growing support for the event underscores a broader recognition of the importance of advancing women’s health care, and the critical role philanthropy plays in ensuring patients can access leading-edge care without having to leave the province.
“Brunch with the Bags™ is more than an elegant afternoon— it’s a celebration of community and a shared commitment to women’s health,” said Jessica Fisher, Committee Chair and Senior Manager, Corporate Communications at Fortis Inc. “Each year, this event brings people together around a cause that touches so many lives. The generosity we witnessed this weekend will help create lasting, positive change in women’s health care in our province.”
The Health Care Foundation extends its deepest thanks to Presenting Sponsor Fortis Inc. for its longstanding support of Brunch with the Bags™. Special appreciation is also extended to Platinum Sponsors belairdirect and Keyin College, the dedicated members of the event’s organizing committee, and the many corporate and community partners who helped bring this signature event to life.
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Media contact
Samantha Harding
Director, Marketing and Communications
Health Care Foundation
T: (709) 687-9707
E: samantha.harding@healthcarefoundation.ca
