$50 million hospital pledge overshadows Hockey Night in Brampton

They came for a hockey game, but Brampton residents left knowing they are a major step closer to getting a second hospital.

By all accounts, Hockey Night in Brampton this past Wednesday was a huge success with a sellout crowd of 5,000 at the CAA Centre enjoying the on-ice action led by Toronto Maple Leaf captain Auston Matthews.

But it was the final tally at the fundraising event that is receiving the most cheers.

While the proceeds from the gate itself raised $6,670,000 in support of the William Osler Health System and building Brampton’s second hospital, the fundraising event received a major financial boost with the news that a family of developers has pledged $50 million to the cause.

The Cortellucci family of the Cortel Group made the commitment, and it’s not the first time the family has stepped up to assist with the health care of the people of Ontario. In 2020, the Cortelluccis donated $40 million to the new Vaughan hospital that now carries the family name.

Speaking to the media, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said the significant donation will go a long way in helping the city meet its financial contribution to the hospital building fund.

Brampton needs to raise $240 million to live up to its pledge for the $2.4 billion hospital project.

“Hockey Night in Brampton proves what this city can do when we come together. Thanks to Mayor Brown, Brampton City Council, the hockey fans of Brampton and the incredible $50 million gift from the Cortel Group and the Cortellucci family — the largest gift in Osler Foundation history and for any cause in Brampton — we’re one step closer to building our second hospital and delivering the world-class health care our growing community deserves,” said Ken Mayhew, President & CEO, William Osler Health System Foundation.

This was the fourth year that Hockey Night in Brampton was presented, an event that showcases NHL players past and present who help out with the fundraising efforts.

Along with Matthews, other current players who took part in the exhibition match included Owen Power, Dylan Strome, Chris Tanev and Taylor Raddysh. They were joined by retired players Owen Nolan, Curtis Joseph, Gary Roberts and Jeremy Roenick. The teams were coached by former Maple Leafs Darryl Sittler and Wendel Clark. The team captained by Tanev won the game by a score of 10-9.