Our Very Own Spitfires:
The IWK Auxiliary—An 80-Year Love Story

In 1946, a remarkable group of women who had valiantly raised funds to build Spitfires during World War II turned this trailblazing spirit toward supporting the Halifax Children’s Hospital, as it was then known.

This moment marked the first chapter of a beautiful story—one that would shape the very heart and soul of the IWK.

Since then, the IWK Auxiliary has been woven into the fabric of the IWK—championing care, inspiring generosity, and carrying forward a tradition of compassion that has touched generations of families. They were always ahead of their time, never shying away from a challenge, and their vision and tireless advocacy have left a profound impact.

From donating small yet extremely impactful items to enabling first-of-their-kind accomplishments across the country, their legacy is not only remembered but continues to guide the IWK every single day.

As the IWK Auxiliary closes this chapter, the IWK Foundation is proud to continue their legacy through the creation of the IWK Auxiliary Comfort and Care Endowment Fund.

Donations to this fund will ensure that a history as great as the IWK Auxiliary’s will live on, and that their trailblazing spirit will continue to strengthen care, both now and in the future.

To learn more about the Auxiliary’s storied history and the IWK Auxiliary Comfort and Care Endowment Fund, visit iwkfoundation.org/comfortandcare