The West Auckland Health Services Foundation (WASHF) is a charitable trust established to provide support for all services operated by the Waitemata DHB in Waitakere City and West Rodney District.
The Foundation’s philosophy is entwined with that of the recently redeveloped Waitakere Hospital, focusing on wellness and community participation. The Foundation receives gifts, donations, bequests, grants and goods-in-kind, and manages all sponsorship relationships that benefit Waitakere Hospital and it's community-based services. Over $1million has been received by way of grants and donations over the past three years and over $500,000 in goods-in-kind.
The Foundation has a number programmes established to provide ongoing support for the hospital and community based services. These include:
Winter Woollies Programme
Over 40 community groups and individuals annually donate hundreds of hand-knitted items for Maternity, Special Care Baby and Rangitira Units. Donations of booties, hats, baby blankets and cardigans are most welcome any time.
Toys, books and magazines
Waitakere Hospital has 25 waiting rooms that are regularly replenished with children’s toys, books and magazines for patients and visitors to enjoy while they wait. Donations are received by the Foundation office and distributed throughout the hospital.
Healing Arts Programme
The Foundation manages a Healing Arts Programme that encourages local artists to donate artworks to the hospital for the enjoyment of patients, visitors and staff. Local community groups such as Henderson Rotary have also been supportive in the development of gardens around the hospital.
Volunteers
A group of 45 volunteers meet and greet patients and visitors, welcoming them to Waitakere Hospital before assisting them to the appropriate location within the building. Volunteers also support the Rangitira Unit and Day Surgical Units.