The Lise and Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation makes a historic $2 million donation, launching the “Relevons la tête ensemble” campaign to support patient well-being and mental health research.
From left to right: Jean-François Fortin-Verreault (CIUSSS EMTL), Sandra D’Auteuil (CIUSSS EMTL), Lise Racanelli, Giuseppe Racanelli, Véronique Racanelli and Carole Morin (FIUSMM)
Montreal, February 11, 2025 – The Fondation de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal (FIUSMM) is proud to announce an extraordinary $2 million donation from the Lise and Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation. This historic gift, the largest ever received by FIUSMM, marks the official launch of the “Relevons la tête ensemble” fundraising campaign. With this ambitious initiative, the Foundation is furthering its mission: to foster lasting recovery for individuals living with mental health challenges through innovation in care, clinical research, and the academic mission of the Institute.
A wave of love and hope for the patients of the Institute…
The Racanelli family’s remarkable generosity will help bring to life several transformative projects in the coming months, all aimed at improving the quality of life for IUSMM patients:
- Creation of calming rooms within care units—specially designed spaces to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Development of a family lounge, offering a warm, welcoming environment where loved ones can provide essential support to patients.
- Establishment of an emergency fund to assist the most vulnerable patients with unexpected financial hardships that could hinder their recovery (e.g., medication, urgent medical expenses, housing, and essential equipment).
This exceptional donation will also ensure the sustainability of key FIUSMM initiatives for years to come, such as the food bank, which provides emergency grocery baskets to patients in financial distress, and the Holiday Guignolée, a moment of comfort for those who face isolation during the holiday season.
…And more
Beyond these tangible initiatives, this philanthropic gesture will also support IUSMM’s academic mission. As a center of excellence in mental health, the Institute plays a critical role in developing and sharing best practices through cutting-edge clinical research.
“With this donation, we hope that every patient and their family receives the best possible care and attention, that science advances rapidly to heal those who suffer, and that the stigma surrounding mental illness disappears forever.” – Véronique Racanelli, President of the Lise and Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation.
“This historic gift means so much to FIUSMM. It allows us to address the immediate needs of patients today while building the solutions of tomorrow through research and innovation. Our teams are the brain, and the Racanelli family is the heart. We are incredibly grateful for their support.” – Catherine Newman, Chair of the Board, FIUSMM, and Carole Morin, President and CEO.
About the Lise and Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation
The Lise and Giuseppe Racanelli Foundation is known for its deep commitment to causes that promote community well-being. For years, it has supported projects that address essential needs and create opportunities for vulnerable populations.
About the FIUSMM
The Fondation de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal drives innovation and excellence in mental health research and clinical care, ensuring accessible and recovery-focused services for all. Thanks to the generosity of its donors, thousands of lives are rebuilt each year, helping individuals living with mental illness reclaim their place in society.
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MEDIAS AND PRESS
For more information, please contact:
Mélanie Pollet, Director of Communications and Philanthropic Development
Fondation de l’Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal
514 224-5375 – melanie.pollet.cemtl@ssss.gouv.qc.ca