Prince Edward District Women’s Institute Backs the Build

bboyce • November 13, 2024

Prince Edward District Women’s Institute shows commitment to new hospital

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

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The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) Foundation is proud to recognize the generosity of Brandon and Hailey Pounder, co-owners of Pounder’s Pub & Patio, who hosted the first annual Pounder Polar Plunge on February 1. Held at Pounder’s Pub & Patio in Wellington, the event brought together community members, local hockey teams including the Wellington Dukes and County Royals, and spectators for a fun and meaningful day in support of local causes. Close to 40 participants took the plunge with a $20 entry fee, while attendees enjoyed a community BBQ donated by the County Royals. The event raised $1,000 for the PECMH Foundation’s Back the Build campaign and $1,000 for the Wellington Auxiliary Rescue Association (WARA), supporting both the future of healthcare in Prince Edward County and the vital work of WARA’s volunteer-run marine search and rescue team. “We are incredibly grateful to Brandon and Hailey for their creativity, community spirit, and commitment to making a difference,” said Shannon Coull, executive director of the PECMH Foundation. “Events like the Pounder Polar Plunge not only raise important funds but also build momentum and awareness for local initiatives that matter deeply.” “We started the Polar Plunge to give back to the community we grew up in and bring people together,” said Brandon Pounder, co-owner of Pounder's Pub & Patio. “The support from local teams and residents was incredible, and we’re excited to grow this into an annual event and continue supporting important local causes.” Over the past six years (2020–2025), Quinte Health has recorded 315 emergency department visits related to water incidents at its four hospitals—an average of approximately 53 visits per year across the region. PECMH alone sees an average of 11 such visits annually. “Even one drowning is one too many,” said David McFaul, WARA supervisor. “Water safety is something we can’t take for granted in our region, and it takes awareness, education, and strong community organizations to keep people safe. The Wellington Auxiliary Rescue Association plays a critical role in protecting residents and visitors on our waterways through their dedicated volunteer efforts.” WARA operates as part of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, responding to emergencies across West Lake and Lake Ontario. With a highly trained, all-volunteer crew, the organization plays a critical role in ensuring safety along approximately 125 kilometres of shoreline and 2,400 square kilometres of water. Its operations rely heavily on community support and fundraising efforts. The PECMH Foundation extends its sincere thanks to Brandon and Hailey of Pounder’s Pub & Patio and everyone who participated in or supported the inaugural Pounder Polar Plunge.