Role of Hearts for Healthcare in the funding ecosystem
Hearts for Healthcare is a charitable, volunteer-led non-profit founded in 2009 to respond to growing healthcare needs in the Cold Lake, Alberta region. The organization raises money through major events such as its annual gala, the Mega Bounce Run, a wellness raffle and other community initiatives. These funds are invested back into the local health system through grants, equipment purchases and incentive programs that help keep healthcare services close to home.
Since its creation, Hearts for Healthcare reports having raised well over a million dollars, attracting new physicians to the area and purchasing more than a million dollars in healthcare-enhancing equipment. It works in partnership with Alberta Health Services, the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre, local clinics and practitioners to identify priorities.
Funding programs and typical beneficiaries
The organization supports healthcare in three main ways: physician attraction and retention, facility enhancements, and community advocacy. A flagship initiative is the Physician Incentive Program, which provides eligible new physicians who commit to a three-year practice in Cold Lake with up to $20,000 to help cover relocation and practice start-up costs, along with networking and professional development support.
Through its Apply for Funds process, Hearts for Healthcare provides grants primarily to local healthcare facilities and teams. Supported requests include the purchase of medical equipment, upgrades that enhance patient care or access, direct training expenses for patient care teams and certain recruitment-related costs. Investments have helped acquire ambulances, cardiac monitors, a CT scanner, maternity equipment and other critical items for the Cold Lake Healthcare Centre and the wider community.
The organization explicitly limits its financial assistance to initiatives within the Cold Lake region and does not fund travel expenses or requests from private businesses, religious groups or political organizations.
General evaluation and decision-making process
Funding requests are submitted through a dedicated application pathway and are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the Board of Directors. The Board may invite applicants to present their proposals at a board meeting, particularly for larger or more complex projects. Decisions are based on factors such as current funds available, organizational priorities and the order in which requests are received.
To ensure that funds address genuine needs, Hearts for Healthcare consults with healthcare workers and key stakeholders in the region. Their recommendations inform prioritization, but final grant decisions rest with the Board, which retains the authority to approve, modify or decline requests.
Community initiatives and overall impact
Beyond direct grants, Hearts for Healthcare runs recognition programs such as the Nurse of the Year Award and the Healthcare Excellence Award, which highlight outstanding contributions by local healthcare workers. Community events like Sparkle in the Park help maintain public engagement and thank residents and businesses for their support.
By combining targeted financial support, physician recruitment incentives and strong community advocacy, Hearts for Healthcare plays a central role in strengthening the healthcare ecosystem in and around Cold Lake, ensuring residents have better access to high-quality, locally delivered care.