Hensall Co-op and its employees are thrilled to announce the recipients of the fourth annual Hensall Co-op Strong Communities Initiative, a program dedicated to supporting initiatives that make a positive impact on rural communities. This year, two exceptional organizations have been chosen to receive grants totalling $20,000, with an additional $12,500 being split between 5 other well-deserving organizations.

The Palmerston and District Hospital Foundation, located in Palmerston, ON, has been selected as one of the grant recipients. They will receive $10,000 in funding to aid in purchasing an MRI machine. This initiative will bring much-needed high-quality healthcare services to the residents of Palmerston and the surrounding communities, ensuring they have access to healthcare of the highest standard.

Additionally, the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation located in Clinton, ON, has been granted $10,000 to purchase an ophthalmic chair. This piece of equipment will allow rural residents to receive care in their community following cataract surgery without having to travel long distances.

Brad Chandler, CEO of Hensall Co-op, expressed his enthusiasm for these grants: “We received many applications showcasing the needs of rural communities. Hensall Co-op is honoured to support organizations that are essential to our communities."

With the strong need in rural communities, Hensall Co-op has also awarded each of the following organizations a $2,500 grant:

• Corbett Community Centre – Enhancement Project (Parkhill, ON)
• Brookside Public School – Playground Enhancement Project (Lucknow, ON)
• Wingham & District Hospital Foundation – CT Scanner (Wingham, ON)
• Portage Junk Yard Dogs Inc. – Hiking, Tobogganing, and Biking Park (Portage la Prairie, MB)
• Hanover Parks – Community Splash Pad Development (Hanover, ON)

The Hensall Co-op Strong Communities Initiative seeks to provide one-time grants to projects that address critical needs within communities, with a particular focus on initiatives aligned with Community Health and Healthy Living. Grants of $10,000 are awarded to projects completed by not-for-profit entities that are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as charities and have been in operation for over 12 months.

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.