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The 2019 Kent Great Big Dig raises record-breaking $550,000 for the IWK Foundation

Halifax, NS (November 12, 2019) – Members and friends of the Atlantic Canadian construction community came together in a big way for the IWK this past weekend, raising a record-breaking $550,000 at the 2019 Kent Great Big Dig for the IWK.

“The Kent Great Big Dig is an example of the difference that can be made when competitors and friends join together to achieve a common goal. The outstanding generosity of everyone involved is making a positive impact in the lives of Maritime families and that’s really what it’s all about,” says event chair John Flemming of Ocean Contractors. “Over the last 18 years, the Kent Great Big Dig has raised more than $4.2 million for the IWK and that’s something the entire organizing committee is incredibly proud of.”

Flemming wrapped up his three-year term as chair, officially passing the torch to incoming chair, Rene Cox of Bird Construction at the event.

This year, funds raised through the Great Big Dig will support the purchase of urgently needed smart beds at the IWK. From children and youth who are battling cancer, recovering from surgery or living with a chronic illness, to women on bed-rest during a pregnancy or recovering from gynecological surgery, there is nothing more vital to a patient receiving specialized inpatient care. Smart beds are so much more than just an average bed. Equipped with wireless technology and other key features that will improve the quality, comfort and outcomes for patients staying at the IWK, smart beds are a life-saving piece of equipment.

“You could feel the passion in the room as everyone dug deep for patients at the IWK and I’m thrilled to share that thanks to the funds raised, the IWK will be getting more than 35 new smart beds,” says Jennifer Gillivan, President & CEO, IWK Foundation. “What the construction industry is doing through this event is building community and we are incredibly grateful for their commitment to ensuring Maritime women and children have access to nothing less than the best care.”

Every year, the Kent Great Big Dig for the IWK demonstrates the generosity of the Atlantic Canadian construction industry by raising funds for the Health Centre during an unforgettable evening of food, entertainment, spectacular auction items and prizes. In addition to title sponsor, Kent, the Great Big Dig was supported by a multitude of organizations including platinum sponsor RCR Hospitality Group and media sponsor CTV Atlantic. For a full list of event sponsors, please visit www.greatbigdig.ca/sponsors.

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About the IWK Foundation
The IWK Foundation is a champion of excellence in women's and children's health and medicine and works in partnership with the IWK Health Centre to support their vision of providing quality care to women, children, youth and families in the Maritime Provinces and beyond. Our donors are passionately committed to making a difference for Maritime families, contributing more than $15 million in support of the most urgent care priorities at the IWK last year. Funds raised also support the IWK's global leadership in research and knowledge sharing, which in turn improves lives worldwide. For more information, visit www.iwkfoundation.org.

Cutline: Event chair John Flemming addresses the crowd during the 2019 Kent Great Big Dig for the IWK.

For more information, please contact:

Kelly Duggan
Communications Specialist
IWK Foundation
902.220.8029
kelly.duggan@iwk.nshealth.ca