Brant Community Healthcare System

Today, BCHS took a meaningful step toward reconciliation by introducing culturally relevant menu options that reflect the needs and traditions of our Indigenous and First Nations patients.

With over 4,000 Indigenous patients served each year, this initiative helps ensure care that is not only clinically excellent, but culturally respectful, inclusive, and supportive of healing in every sense. We will be launching a full Indigenous patient menu in the Fall of this year.

Thank you to our Nutrition Services, Indigenous Health teams, Chef Rick Powless (Six Nations), and Compass One for bringing this important work to life.

BCHS is proud to announce the official opening of the newly renovated Emergency Department Waiting Room and Triage areas at Brantford General Hospital!

After nearly 10 months of renovation work, these modern, purpose-built spaces are now open for patient care, representing a significant milestone in our Emergency Department Renovation Improvement Project.

We would like to sincerely thank the Ontario Ministry of Health, Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation and its donors, our BCHS Redevelopment and construction teams, our Emergency Department care teams and staff, and all those involved with the project who have worked tirelessly to turn these spaces into a reality.

➡️ Keep up to date with renovations and upcoming project milestones happening this summer at www.reimaginebchs.ca

Sylvia Jones | Will Bouma | Ontario Ministry of Health | Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation

At BCHS, we honour Indigenous Peoples Day with deep respect, gratitude, and a commitment to learning from the Indigenous communities we serve.

Our Indigenous Health Strategy begins by honouring the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen (Words Before All Else) and the Anishnaabe traditions of Thanksgiving. These teachings remind us that all good work starts with acknowledging our connections: to each other, to the land, and to the Creator.

🧡 Read about our approach and the teachings guiding our path forward in this recent feature by the Ontario Hospital Association: www.oha.com/news/new-strategy-grounded-in-respect-gratitude-and-indigenous-teachings

Today and every day, we reaffirm our responsibility to create spaces of safety, belonging, and cultural understanding in care.

As we recognize National Indigenous Peoples Day, we are grateful to Tehahenteh and our Indigenous Health Team for inviting BCHS senior leaders to participate in a To***co Burning Ceremony at Brantford General Hospital.

The ceremony provided an opportunity for reflection and renewal, while deepening our understanding of traditional Indigenous practices. Experiences like these reinforce our commitment to culturally safe care and meaningful partnership with Indigenous communities.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge, teachings, and traditions with us. It was an honour to participate.

In advance of the newly renovated Emergency Department (ED) Waiting Room and Triage areas opening for patient care on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, BCHS recently welcomed our community Police, Fire, and EMS teams to tour the newly renovated spaces.

Familiarizing emergency personnel with the modern layout and updated patient flow processes ensures our emergency response network is integrated and ready to deliver seamless care.

This is an exciting step towards reimaging our ED and we thank you for your continued support and cooperation as we work to serve you better.

➡️ Visit https://shorturl.at/z606h for an updated wayfinding map of BGH Level 1. Enhanced wayfinding and signage will be in place to assist patients, visitors, and staff when navigating these areas.

✔️ Keep up to date with renovations and future project milestones happening this Summer by visiting www.reimaginebchs.ca

A heartfelt thank you to everyone at BCHS for the dedication, compassion, and commitment you bring to our healthcare system each day. It is the passion of our people that continues to drive meaningful progress and shape who we are as an organization.

This year's Annual Report, "Leading Beyond Care" (presented at last night's BCHS Board Annual General Meeting), highlights the teamwork and shared purpose behind the exceptional care we provide and the milestones we've achieved together.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to advancing healthcare excellence, supporting our people, strengthening partnerships, and improving the health and well-being of our community.

🔗 Read the BCHS 2025–26 Annual Report to the Community: www.bchsys.org/about-us/accountability/

What started as a short-term residency placement turned into a meaningful career. 💜

Meet Dr. Mena Bahnam, a BCHS pediatrician whose passion for caring for children — from the Emergency Department to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit — is rooted in connection, collaboration, and making a difference for families in our community.

Read how BCHS became the place where she found support, purpose, and a career caring for some of our youngest patients: https://www.bchsys.org/news/posts/caring-close-to-home/

✨Start your career at BCHS today, www.bchsys.org/careers.

You're invited!

The Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) Board of Directors will be holding a hybrid Annual General Meeting (AGM) today, Wednesday, June 17, 2026, beginning at 4:00pm.

Please join us in the Brantford General Hospital Cafeteria (C-Wing, Level Main).

For those who cannot attend in person, a Zoom link is available: https://zoom.us/j/99481656384?pwd=nBMtmcugYoIjvbWCt8HKxlqPeDn4MF.1

Meeting ID: 994 8165 6384 | Passcode: AGM2026

Inclusion Every Day, Belonging for All

Matthew Mayer embodies an intersection of identities – he is a longtime healthcare worker, a dedicated Unit Clerk in the Emergency Department, a graduate from George Brown College, a valued member of a loving and supportive family, a partner of 24 years, and a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

For Matt, inclusion isn’t just about big gestures — it’s found in the small, everyday actions that make people feel seen, respected, and safe to be themselves. When we lead with kindness, listen openly, and advocate for one another, we help build communities where everyone belongs.

Read the full feature: https://www.bchsys.org/news/posts/matthew-mayer-inclusion-every-day-belonging-for-all/

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