Salvation Army Health Centre Celebrates Opening of Rooftop Garden

On Friday June 25, 2010, The Salvation Army’s Toronto Grace Health Centre Irwin Rooftop Garden was officially opened by Commissioner William W. Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda.

In October 2009 the Health Centre received its largest donation in the more than 100-year history of the hospital. A portion of the $1.9 million estate gift by the late John Irwin supported the renovation of a sixth floor rooftop into a beautiful garden space accessible to all. The garden allows patients, families, visitors and staff to enjoy green space in the middle of Toronto’s downtown core. From the fountain, breathtaking grounds, artwork and the patient’s own vegetable garden, it is a haven of peace to all who visit.

The Grace was home to both John and his wife Nora in the final years of their lives and they were deeply moved by the compassionate care provided to patients.