PICTON, November 12, 2024—They host luncheons and craft and bake sales. They award student bursaries, offer educational programs, and advocate for social and economic change. Their group is small, but together, they make big things happen.

Since its inception in 1908, the Prince Edward District Women’s Institute (PEDWI) has focused its efforts on improving the health and wellness of its neighbourhoods. True to its mission, the Women’s Institute has donated funds raised through its initiatives to local organizations and efforts that benefit many people living in or visiting Prince Edward County.

Today, members of the PEDWI are Backing the Build by supporting the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation’s (PECMHF) campaign for the new hospital.

PEDWI’s President, Linda Mitchell, and Branch members presented representatives from PECMHF and the Back the Build Campaign Cabinet with a $5,000 gift to the redevelopment campaign to bring a new hospital to Prince Edward County.

The funds were raised through the PEDWI Art & Craft Sale, which the District hosted annually for 40 years (1983-2023).

“PECMHF is deeply committed to providing innovative, exceptional care for everyone in our community, and a new facility will help us do that,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of PECMHF. “Organizations like the Prince Edward District Women’s Institute speak to the importance of community involvement and its impact on the quality of life for those residing and visiting our County. We are so grateful for their support and interest in the future of healthcare delivery in our hospital.”

“The energy these women put into their communities is admirable,” said Back the Build Campaign Chairperson Nancy Parks. “Every time they come together, good things happen around them. This donation brings us closer to seeing a fabulous new hospital built in Prince Edward County.”

With this gift, the group’s cumulative giving to the PECMH Foundation has reached $17,798 over 23 years.

The PEDWI is comprised of six Branches throughout Prince Edward County. There are 61 members in total. 

 “The PEDWI strives to make a difference in the lives we touch through the work we love--a love of family and community that motivates us to raise funds and volunteer so others may feel the warmth in our hearts,” said Mitchell. “We believe that enhancing health care is a shared responsibility that benefits everyone, and we sincerely hope that this gift inspires others to contribute to the new hospital in their own way.”

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.

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

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation is a charitable organization whose mission is to raise money to advance health care for the people of Prince Edward County and the patients of the hospital.

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Photo: Members of the PEDWI and PECMHF pose in front of the current hospital.

Photo Credit: Monica Alyea