A community fundraiser is underway to help expand the hours and services at the Port Hope Walk-In Clinic, which serves residents across Northumberland County.
The 10-day Toonie fundraising campaign, running from June 21 to July 1, aims to raise $70,000 to support hiring a nurse practitioner, a key step toward extending the clinic’s reach.
“Right now, physicians bill OHIP directly, but nurse practitioners and mental health counsellors do not,” said Port Hope Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “What we’re trying to do with this ten-day fundraiser is to raise $70,000 and with that money we’d like to hire a nurse practitioner.”
Hiring a nurse practitioner, who would provide three days of service per week, is expected to add roughly $90,000 to the clinic’s annual operating budget. The clinic also hopes to introduce mental health counselling to better serve the growing number of patients needing non-emergency, primary care.
To help get there, the Port Hope and District Health Care Foundation has pledged to match donations up to $70,000.
“This is a chance to double your impact,” Hankivsky added. “These services are essential and without OHIP coverage, we need to rely on community support.”
Donations over $20 are eligible for automatic tax receipts, but Hankivsky emphasized that even a toonie will can a difference. You can also make donations online through the Foundation’s website, in-person at local businesses and at upcoming events in the community.
To learn more visit: https://porthopefoundation.ca/.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
