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The Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation presented the audited statements for the 2015-2016 fiscal year at their Annual General Meeting on June 15 at the Colonial Motel.

Overall, the Foundation raised $1,068,188 against $141,636 in expenditures for a total cost per dollar raised of only .13 cents. “This is fabulous,” said Chair Jonna Ebel. “We aim to keep a low cost per dollar while continuing to move the Foundation forward. It’s very important to us and and to our donors.”

Fundraising for the ER Laboratory expansion at the Southampton Hospital now totals 2.6 million received in donations and a further $600,000 in pledges and promises that are expected to come in before the construction project is completed in early 2018.

See: Groundbreaking ceremony kicks off hospital expansion

The Foundation also presented a cheque in the amount of $287,625 to Grey Bruce Health Services for their portion of the new Cancer Centre at the Owen Sound Regional Hospital which officially opened in May 2016.

See: Saugeen Shores part of Cancer Care Centre opening

“We are pleased to do our part for this important facility that helps care for the patients of Saugeen Shores and beyond who require Cancer Care. It is so nice to know that their travel and discomfort is minimized because of this new facility,” said Hospital Campaign Chair, Tony Sheard.

In addition, the Foundation also raised almost $350,000 towards annual needs to purchase much needed replacement equipment. “Sometimes people forget that the government does not pay for replacement equipment,” said Sally Kidson, Executive Director, Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation. “Each year we receive a list of priority needs for which we raise funds. Our challenge is to raise $440,000 in this new fiscal year for the purchase of equipment,” said Kidson.

Jim Barbour, Foundation Vice-Chair thanked all the volunteers, community organizations, businesses and individual donors who have made this possible. “From the $1 donation to significant gifts in wills, donations from corporations and many organizations, we are very grateful that so many recognize that keeping health care close to home is a priority that we all need to support financially.”

The Foundation said farewell to long time board member, Andy Bingham and welcomed Mary Jo Arnett and Jennifer Tuer as new board members. Jonna Ebel, Chair and Jim Barbour, Vice-Chair will continue in the second year of their two year terms. Shannon Van Valkenburg was elected Secretary-Treasurer. The balance of the board members continuing in their terms are Mary McCallum, Merle Rath, Tony Sheard, Susan Dunlop and Joan Vaughan.

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