(Huntsville, ON) – The Muskoka Community Foundation is pleased to announce the creation of the Huntsville Community Fund in partnership with the Town of Huntsville, and the launch of two projects: Healthcare Professional Attraction and Retention and Unity Path.

This fund will support organizations and programs that align with the strategic priorities of the Town and the shared values of the Muskoka Community Foundation. To launch the Fund, Council have approved two projects that are ready for donations:

1. Healthcare Professional Attraction and Retention

Donations to the Healthcare Professional Attraction and Retention project will be used to fund ongoing community initiatives that increase access to healthcare for Huntsville residents. Previous Town of Huntsville healthcare initiatives include the Physician Incentive Program and supporting the Annex Healthcare Clinic by providing operational facilities.

2. Unity Path

The Unity Path is a project designed to celebrate the diversity in Huntsville’s community with a dedicated safe space. The conceptual design honours veterans, accessibility, cultural diversity and both the Indigenous and LGBTQ2S+ communities. The completed project will include a sign installation at Trinity United Church and an immersive experience along the pathway beside Town Hall.

Mayor Alcock expressed her enthusiasm for the newly established community fund and approved projects,

“Huntsville residents are very engaged, and they want their dollars to stay local. These projects will support healthcare for our community and an installation to reflect the diversity of Huntsville. We’ve received requests from individuals asking how they can donate to these initiatives, and this partnership will facilitate exactly that.”

Executive Director of the Foundation, Mary Ellen McIntyre, also echoed the benefits,

“The Muskoka Community Foundation is excited to work with the Town of Huntsville to support organizations that provide necessary and innovative programs that will enhance the lives of those living in Huntsville. The Community Fund is an opportunity for residents, local businesses and seasonal homeowners to combine their efforts to create a legacy that is far more difficult to achieve independently. No matter the size of the gift, the impact will be long lasting.”

Projects added to the Huntsville Community Fund must meet a charitable threshold, be for the betterment of the community and be approved by Council. Projects could include support for affordable housing, mental health, wellness, and well-being, safe and inclusive spaces, food insecurity, sports and recreation, arts, culture, heritage and educational bursaries.

To learn more about how you can donate to the new Huntsville Community Fund visit muskokacommunityfoundation.ca or call the Foundation at 705 646-1220.

-30-

About the Muskoka Community Foundation:

The Muskoka Community Foundation is one of 200 Community Foundations in Canada administering over $2 million in endowed and flow-through funds. Since it was founded in 2007 the Muskoka Community Foundation has granted over $2 million directly to registered charities throughout Muskoka.

For more information contact:

Mary Ellen McIntyre, Executive Director
Muskoka Community Foundation
Tel: 705 646 1220
Email: info@muskokacommunityfoundation.ca