The generosity of local residents and businesses was on full display Thursday as the 2026 Radiothon for Local Healthcare raised $63,525 for three area hospital foundations.
The 10-hour fundraiser brought together communities across Lanark County and beyond, with donations pouring in to help support medical equipment and patient care close to home.
The money will benefit the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation, Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital Foundation, and Almonte General Hospital Fairview Manor Foundation.
Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital CEO Michael Cohen said the community once again showed up.
The need for community fundraising remains significant.
While government funding supports hospital operations, Ontario hospitals rely heavily on donations to purchase new medical equipment and technology. Those costs are generally not covered through regular provincial or federal funding.
That means community donations help provide doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals with the tools they need to deliver quality care close to home.
The Kinsmen Club of Smiths Falls donated a staggering $10,000 for the cause
Executive Director of Almonte General Hospital and Fairview Manor Foundation Vaia Dimas said the all-for-one one-for-all mantra is truly adopted on days like this.
The Radiothon also highlighted the cooperation between the three foundations, all working toward the same goal of strengthening healthcare across the region.
Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation CEO Margot Hallam played a key role in bringing the event together, working alongside foundation representatives, volunteers and the radio stations to make the day a success.
Alison Lunn of the Carleton Place & District Memorial Hospital Foundation said it’s always a heartwarming day.
The fundraiser aired across 88.1 myFM and 92.3 WOW FM stations and social media, bringing local healthcare stories to listeners.
Throughout the day, listeners heard about the importance of community hospitals and the difference donations can make for patients and families.
Local businesses also helped make the broadcast possible, including Stephanie Mols of Coldwell Banker, Scott Somerville of Century 21, Co-operators, North & Bun, Van Horne Manor Retirement Residence, Action Landscaping and Tayside Motorsports.
Behind the scenes, volunteers helped answer donation calls while station staff welcomed guests and shared stories celebrating local healthcare.
The final total reflects contributions from individuals and businesses, large and small, all united by a common cause.
For the three hospital foundations, Thursday’s success means additional resources to help meet ongoing healthcare needs.
And for the communities they serve, it’s another reminder that when local healthcare needs a helping hand, neighbours are ready to answer the call.
