28 May 2026
M’Chigeeng, ON – Manitoulin Health Centre (MHC) is proud to announce a generous $50,000 contribution from M’Chigeeng First Nation in support of physician recruitment and retention efforts across Manitoulin Island.
The donation reflects the continued strength of collaboration and partnership between Indigenous communities and healthcare organizations working together to support sustainable healthcare services close to home for residents across the region.
Funds will support ongoing physician recruitment and retention initiatives aimed at attracting healthcare professionals to Manitoulin Island and strengthening access to care for patients and families throughout the communities served by MHC.
Sheshegwaning First Nation, Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation, Whitefish River First Nation, and Noojmowin Teg Health Centre have also previously contributed recruitment funding in support of physician recruitment and retention initiatives, with M’Chigeeng First Nation being the latest community partner to contribute toward these regional healthcare efforts.
“We recognize that access to healthcare is important for all of our communities,” said Chief Glen Hare of M’Chigeeng First Nation. “Recruiting and retaining physicians in rural and Northern communities is something we all benefit from. We are proud to support these efforts and would encourage other First Nations and community partners across Manitoulin and the region to consider contributing toward physician recruitment and retention initiatives that strengthen healthcare services for everyone.”
Like many rural healthcare organizations across Ontario, MHC continues to experience increasing recruitment pressures and challenges related to healthcare workforce shortages, physician recruitment, and housing availability for incoming healthcare professionals. Community partnerships and regional collaboration remain critical components in addressing these challenges and sustaining healthcare services close to home.
“We are in incredibly grateful to M’Chigeeng First Nation for this meaningful contribution and continued partnership,” said Paula Fields, President & CEO of MHC. “This donation represents more than financial support – it reflects a shared commitment to improving healthcare access and supporting the long-erm sustainability of healthcare services across Manitoulin Island.”
“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to sincerely thank Chief Glen Hare and M’Chigeeng First Nation for their generosity and commitment to strengthening healthcare on Manitoulin Island,” said Dennis McGregor, Chair of the Manitoulin Health Centre Board of Directors. “Recruiting and retaining physicians is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of healthcare for our communities. This contribution demonstrates the power of partnership and shared responsibility in ensuring residents continue to have access to quality care close to home.”
Manitoulin Health Centre extends sincere appreciation to Chief Glen Hare and M’Chigeeng First Nation for their leadership, generosity, and commitment to supporting healthcare recruitment and retention initiatives benefiting communities across Manitoulin Island.
