PICTON, November 26, 2024 – The Picton Firefighters’ Association have once again shown their commitment to the health and well-being of our community by making its fourth gift in support of the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s (PECMHF) new hospital campaign.

The Picton Firefighters’ Association turned up the heat on Tuesday evening when their members presented the PECMHF with a $2,000 gift to Back the Build.

This gift brings the Picton Firefighters cumulative giving to $12,000 in support of the campaign.

“We’re proud and honoured to help our community by continuing to raise funds that will Back the Build for our new County hospital. Firefighters are known traditionally for giving back to their communities, so we’re keeping that tradition alive and well in Prince Edward County,” said Brendan Bellchamber, president of the Picton Firefighters’ Association.

When firefighters put on their bunker gear, they prioritize saving lives—at fire scenes, car accidents, and medical emergencies in the community. And now, they’ve reached out with another donation to build the new hospital.

“Whenever they are needed, firefighters will always answer the call. Today, they are answering another call to help us realize our goal of a new hospital in The County,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “We extend special thanks to all of the Picton Firefighters’ Association firefighters for going above and beyond to raise money to support the building of Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital’s future home!”

The funds were raised through various activities undertaken by the Picton Firefighters’ Association, including the annual Christmas tree sales held at Station 1 in Picton.

Construction of the new hospital is underway. This leading-edge hospital will be the first hospital of its kind in North America, with modern medical equipment, smart technology, and exceptional environmental sustainability enhancements.

Based on current timelines, the new hospital will be completed in late 2027. For more information, visit www.pecmhf.ca/back-the-build.

Established in 1958, the Picton Firefighters’ Association is a team of 24 full-time and volunteer members. Their fundraising efforts benefit causes such as sports teams, Camp Bucko, a summer camp for young burn survivors, The Roc, Hospice Prince Edward, and kid-friendly activities such as the Picton Easter Egg Hunt. The Association decides as a group how their donations will benefit the community.

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to raising funds to advance health care for the people of Prince Edward County and patients of the hospital.

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Photo: Pictured at Station 1 in Picton with the Picton Firefighters is Briar Boyce, senior development officer with the PECMH Foundation.

Photo credit: Dan Claxton