Merlin Door Systems has long stood as a reliable name in Ottawa’s commercial, institutional, and industrial sectors. Known for its extensive inventory of frames, doors, and related hardware, Merlin consistently supports the community it serves—and now, the company has extended its reach into healthcare by donating over $150,000 to the Bruyère Health Foundation.
This generous contribution reflects the company’s commitment to giving back. “Our stake in this is personal,” explains Tom Warford, Merlin’s Co-Owner and Vice President. “We all know someone who has needed medical care, and our entire team takes pride in knowing we’re making a tangible impact.”
The donation will provide essential medical equipment, including three bariatric beds, four ventilators, and an ultrasound exam table. These resources will benefit patients directly and ease the workload of frontline staff caring for patients in the areas of aging, rehabilitation and for those with multiple complex medical conditions.
Russell Grass, founder of Merlin Door Systems and Waterdon Construction, describes how philanthropy has become integral to the company’s identity. “It started with a personal experience when my wife was treated for breast cancer at the Civic Hospital in 2014,” Russell shares. “After her treatment, the surgeon mentioned their plans for a new breast cancer clinic and asked for our support. That was the beginning of our involvement in healthcare projects.”
Merlin’s recent contribution is the latest in a long tradition of supporting Ottawa’s health and social service providers. The company’s culture of giving back is woven into its day-to-day operations, with thank-you letters, plaques, and emails displayed prominently at the office to remind employees of the positive impact they help create.
Tom emphasizes the importance of community involvement for businesses. “Even a small contribution can have a significant impact. We hope that our support encourages other businesses to get involved, identify causes that resonate with them, and make a difference where it matters most.”
The partnership between Merlin Door Systems and Bruyère Health embodies this philosophy, making healthcare improvements that will resonate far beyond the immediate future. As Russell puts it, “Together, we can transform lives and foster a spirit of collaboration that strengthens our community.”
