History

Founders’ story

In 1999, three mothers met in the halls of the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, where their teenage daughters were struggling with the debilitating effects of anorexia nervosa.

While the mothers appreciated the medical care available to their daughters, they were frustrated by the lack of community support for individuals, families and friends affected by eating disorders.

Driven by a common desire to offer a centre of hope, peer support and information to people facing similar struggles, they joined resources and took action.

Inspired by Sheena’s Place in Toronto, the three mothers formed Hopewell in August 1999 to provide individuals with public education programs, a resource and referral centre, and to fill other gaps in community services for teens, adults and their families coping with eating disorders.

Hopewell’s first fundraiser in December 2000 included Anne Murray. Pictured from left are our founders  Joanne Curran, (Anne Murray), Shelley Shusterman and Lucyna Neville. The need for Hopewell’s services is apparent in    the letters of thanks and appreciation that we receive from our clients.

Hopewell is dedicated to the memory of Genevieve Gagnon, who  did not survive her battle with an eating disorder.