More than half of the funds needed for the Kincardine hospital's first major upgrade in 35 years are now in the bank.
The Kincardine and Community Health Care Foundation announced on Wednesday it has hit the $10 million mark in its “building health care for generations” campaign. The campaign aims to raise $18 million to expand the hospital and buy an MRI.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to this campaign so far,” Foundation President Becky Fair said in a statement. “Reaching the $10 million mark as we start our third year of the campaign is a testament to the generosity and commitment of our community. We are confident that, with continued support, we will achieve our goal and enhance health care services for generations to come.”
The planned expansion includes the construction of a new emergency department, laboratory, and a comprehensive medical imaging unit which will be equipped with an MRI. This will double the footprint of critical services offered within the hospital. The hospital foundation is also optimistic the expansion and additional technology will help attract new physicians to the area.
The push to raise the remaining $8 million needed for the work is ongoing, with the hope the community will continue give.
“There is often a misconception that the local community does not need to contribute to the cost of a hospital expansion or equipment,” Campaign Co-Chair Graham Mahood said. “In reality, the local community must raise 100 per cent of equipment costs and 10 per cent of the construction cost of an expansion project.”
Anyone interested in donating to the fundraising campaign can do so through the foundation's website at www.kincardinefoundation.ca.