Walk-In Clinic fundraiser brings in $189,000 in 10 days
Photo courtesy of the Town of Port Hope.
By: Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News
Port Hope
A 10-day fundraising campaign in support of the Port Hope Walk-In Clinic concluded last week, with more than $189,000 raised – including a generous matching donation from the Port Hope and District Healthcare Foundation.
The campaign was spearheaded by Mayor Olena Hankivsky with support from Councillors Les Andrews and Adam Pearson, launched in partnership with the Foundation late last month.
These funds will enable the hiring of nurse practitioners to increase the hours and days the clinic can be open. In the coming months, the clinic also plans to introduce some mental-health supports and services.
In the announcement, Hankivsky declared herself “a very proud mayor.
“This incredible result reflects the strong spirit of collaboration and care in our community. It has truly been a grass-roots effort – from the Healthcare Foundation to the many volunteers, donors and local businesses who stepped forward to contribute.
“I want to thank our summer student Daniel Diamond and other municipal staff for their assistance. I express my heartfelt appreciation to all those in Port Hope and Cobourg who rallied behind this important cause.”
Local fundraising efforts included community-led initiatives such as book sales, donation boxes at storefronts, and a successful charity car wash organized by the Port Hope Police Service and Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services.
There was also outstanding support from local businesses and organizations, including major contributions of $10,000 each from Trade Tech Industries, Dancing Bee Equipment, Santos Auto Group, Mason Homes, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and partners, Ontario Power Generation and Enbridge.
As well, the campaign was also generously supported by a donation from Show and Shine for Spencer Devine, which will enable mental-health awareness and services at the clinic.
In thanking those who answered her personal call, Hankivsky added, “the clinic provides timely access to care, fills gaps in access to primary care, leads to the avoidance of unnecessary emergency-room visits, and plays an integral role in the local health-care infrastructure.”
Foundation President Matthew Clayton recalls early discussions of this campaign and uncertainty over the response.
“What has happened since then has rendered me almost speechless,” Clayton stated.
“This is a shining light for our foundation – a community that comes together and watches each other's backs. I am deeply grateful to the mayor, councillors, staff and to Jemma Racine at the foundation for making this happen.”
The Port Hope and District Healthcare Foundation will manage the matched funds to ensure they are directed to clinic operations that support sustainable long-term access to care.
For more information, and to contribute to future health-care initiatives, visit porthopefoundation.ca/donate
