Grant and Funding Programs Offered by High River District Health Care Foundation (HRDHCF)

Role of the High River District Health Care Foundation in the funding ecosystem

The High River District Health Care Foundation is a community-based charitable foundation dedicated to strengthening healthcare in High River, Nanton and the surrounding rural region of Alberta. Established in 1986, it serves as a vital bridge between donors and the local health system, channeling community generosity into concrete investments that enhance patient care, facilities and health services close to home.

The Foundation raises funds through individual donations, memorial and legacy gifts, annual appeals, special campaigns, events and third‑party fundraisers. These resources are then allocated to priority needs identified in partnership with Alberta Health Services and local care teams. Donor-funded projects range from purchasing up‑to‑date medical equipment to renovating care spaces and adding new comfort and therapy initiatives for patients and long‑term care residents.

Funding domains and typical grants

The Foundation’s primary funding focus is the High River Hospital and associated health units, but its support extends across a wide continuum of care. Key areas include:

• Acute and emergency care: equipment and program enhancements for hospital departments such as emergency, surgery, maternity, diagnostic imaging, laboratory and inpatient units.
• Cancer care: ongoing investment in the High River Community Cancer Centre, including renovation projects, equipment and patient comfort initiatives.
• Long‑term care and supportive living: upgrades to units, dementia‑friendly furnishings, recreation therapy, transportation such as outing buses, and tools that improve safety and quality of life for residents.
• Community, home and public health: equipment and program support for home care teams, public health clinics and community health centres in both High River and Nanton.
• Mental health and addictions: funding for equipment, program spaces and training that reinforce rural mental health and addiction services and community‑facing initiatives such as Mental Health First Aid.
• Spiritual and palliative care: sustaining chaplaincy and related supports that address spiritual and emotional needs for patients, families and staff.

Scholarships, education and workforce support

A distinctive element of the Foundation’s portfolio is its scholarship and education support program for local healthcare workers. Since 2002, the Foundation has invested donor funds to help staff in High River and Nanton pursue degrees, diplomas, certificates and targeted courses in health‑related fields. These scholarships and cost‑share education grants help staff keep their skills current, improve quality of care, and support recruitment and retention in rural health services.

Governance, transparency and community impact

Guided by a volunteer Board of Directors representing local communities, healthcare leadership and rural areas, the Foundation oversees responsible management and distribution of funds, including a permanent endowment established in 1989. Annual reports, community updates and campaign communications highlight how donations are used, from major initiatives like operating room and cancer centre upgrades to smaller equipment purchases and comfort projects in long‑term care.

By coordinating multiple designated funds (such as Greatest Needs, Cancer Clinic, Emergency & EMS, Long Term Care, Maternity, Nanton Health and others), the High River District Health Care Foundation provides flexible, responsive financial support to emerging healthcare needs while preserving donor intent. Its work ensures that residents of High River, Nanton and surrounding rural communities continue to access high‑quality, compassionate care close to home.