It has been a guiding principle of Hensall Co-op to give back where we can, when we can. 2026 marks the sixth year we have done this. Through our Strong Communities Initiative we have infused more than $180,000.00 into not-for-profit organizations that support rural communities.
Our teams of employees throughout Ontario and Manitoba are proud of our ability to continue providing funds to the community groups and organizations that support projects that meet important needs. This year our funding will be distributed to organizations that support youth, health and wellness, increase access to food for all, and needed upgrades.
Hensall Co-op CEO Brad Chandler states:
“We received an unprecedented number of applications for our Strong Communities Initiative this year and were able to provide funding to six not-for-profit organizations in Ontario and Manitoba totalling $30,000.00. The need to continue to support individuals and groups that are stepping up is something we hope to be able to continue to do for as long as possible.”
Of the funds distributed through the Strong Communities Initiative, two recipients received $10,000.00 towards their projects. These were Carman Wellness Connections in Carman, Manitoba and Stephen Central Public School in the Municipality of South Huron, Ontario.
The Carman Wellness Connections will use the funds received to renovate, furnish and transition their offices and community programming from current location to a central, accessible multifunctional space on Main Street in Carman this year.
Carman Wellness Connections provides access to residents in Carman, Manitoba to health, social services, income and housing support. Consistently the centre receives 100 community visits per month and provides coordinated services from 10 local partner agencies.
The $10,000.00 will be used to purchase multi-purpose modular tables and boardroom for meetings or small gatherings. Shelving and furnishings to create an inviting, safe space for community members seeking resources and supports.
Stephen Central Public School is receiving $10,000.00 to be used towards their playground replacement project. Last year the school was advised that the existing playground structures needed to be removed due to age. With funding from multiple sources, the school grounds will be able to replace and improve the equipment available at the school including the addition of accessible equipment.
Stephen Central Public School was built in 1966 in the southern part of Huron County, Ontario and serves the surrounding rural community. The school offers classes for children in kindergarten till grade 6.
The four additional organizations received $2,500.00 each towards their projects:
Mitchell Ag Society – It’s Ok Not to be Ok (Mitchell, ON)
Ailsa Craig Food Bank – Phase 2 of Ailsa Craig Foodbank (Ailsa Craig, ON)
Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation – Funds for addition of MRI at hospital (Goderich, ON)
Glenboro Agricultural Society – Community Hall Projector and Screen (Glenboro, MB)
At Hensall Co-op, we remain committed to supporting those dedicated individuals and organizations supporting our rural communities. We look forward to learning more about the positive impact the funds will have on each of the supported projects.
We would also like to thank all applicants for applying and continuing to strive to make things better. The work and dedication of all our not-for-profit organizations are seen, needed and appreciated.
Source : Hensallco