Hensall Co-op and its employees are thrilled to announce the recipients of the fifth annual Hensall Co-op Strong Communities Initiative, a program dedicated to supporting projects that make a positive impact on rural communities. This year, two exceptional organizations have been chosen to receive grants totalling $20,000, with additional donations being split between 5 other organizations.

The Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre, located in Centralia, ON, has been selected as one of the grant recipients. They will receive $10,000 in funding to aid in providing healthy, school-friendly snacks for children in Huron and Perth Counties. Through their Health School Snacks for Kids program, the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre provide snacks to 34 schools, which serve approximately 7,000 students. Having access to nutritious foods is proven to help reduce risk of chronic diseases and increases school attendance in children.

Additionally, ONE CARE Home & Community Support Services, located in Clinton, ON, has been granted $10,000 towards their Driven to Care – Vehicle Replacement campaign. Providing accessible transportation for older adults and people with health challenges in the rural community, ONE CARE goes the extra mile to ensure individuals have the ability to attend health care appointments.

Brad Chandler, CEO of Hensall Co-op, shared his enthusiasm for the grants, stating: “We received numerous applications highlighting the needs of rural communities. Hensall Co-op is proud to support organizations that play a vital role in our communities.”

With the strong need in rural communities, additional grants have been awarded to:

• Clinton Public Hospital Foundation – Esophageal Dilator (Clinton, ON)
• Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 468 – Accessibility Ramp (Hensall, ON)
• Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 128 – Kitchen Renovation (Mitchell, ON)
• Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation – Wound Vacuum (Seaforth, ON)
• Tiny Tater Childcare Cooperative – New Childcare Centre (Carberry, MB)

Hensall Co-op remains committed to strengthening rural communities across Canada and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of these grants on all communities awarded.