Hyundai dealer network backs cancer care

Two Eastern Ontario hospitals have received a combined $200,000 for pediatric cancer programs through an initiative supported by Hyundai Canada’s dealer network.

Hyundai Hope on Wheels presented $100,000 grants during stops in Kingston and Ottawa as part of its second annual cross-country tour, which is scheduled to visit 16 Canadian communities.

The first ceremony, held Sept. 15, provided $100,000 to the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation. The funding will support research infrastructure for its clinical trials program and supportive-care studies, including research into the use of cryotherapy to help prevent mucositis.

Two days later, the tour stopped at a local Hyundai dealership in Ottawa, where another $100,000 was presented to CHEO to support pediatric oncology care and research.

The events included the charity’s usual Handprint Ceremonies, during which young cancer patients place painted handprints on a Hyundai vehicle. Six-year-old Anderson Thoman participated in Kingston, while 10-year-old Charley was the patient ambassador at the Ottawa event.

The Canadian initiative is supported by Hyundai Canada’s 225 dealers, with a portion of every new Hyundai vehicle sold in the country contributed to Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

“Each handprint represents a child’s courage, a family’s hope and the determination of health-care professionals and researchers working to change the future of childhood cancer,” said Fabio Cappella, Director of Product and Corporate Strategy with Hyundai Canada, in a statement.

The two $100,000 grants form part of Hyundai Hope on Wheels’ commitment to provide more than $4.1 million toward pediatric cancer care, research and family support programs across Canada in 2026.

For dealers, the program provides a direct connection between new-vehicle sales and community funding, with Hyundai’s Canadian retail network helping support the charity’s pediatric cancer initiatives across the country.