MANITOULIN—How sweet it is! The Manitoulin North Shore ANAVETS organization were a familiar sight at the NEMI Farmers’ Market over the past couple of summers as they sold cinnamon buns to raise funds. This past week members of the veteran’s organization’s Branch 176 Manitoulin (the oldest currently in existence) attended the Little Current site of the Manitoulin Health Centre to present a cheque in memorial of passed ANAVETS member Gary Trimmer of Little Current for $2,000 to be split between the hospital’s two sites (Little Current and Mindemoya).
“Gary was first treated in Mindemoya, where he was well looked after, and later here in Little Current,” said spokesperson Roy Eaton. “Gary said that he wanted to make sure that we divided our contribution to both sites. So, we would like to see $1,000 of the $2,000 go to Mindemoya and the other half, as you see fit to use it, here in Little Current.”
“Gary would say ‘look it, we are all old, we are all going to wind up here,’” said Mr. Eaton, to nods and laughter of agreement from his fellow ANAVETS members. “We are donating this money in memory of Gary, but also for every veteran who depends on this hospital for its services. This is in gratitude for all that you do in the service of others.”
“On behalf of the board of directors, thank you for all of your efforts,” said board chair Dennis McGregor, who noted he had the pleasure of knowing Mr. Trimmer well over the years. “This is just like him—thank you for the donation to the two sites. We can certainly use the money; we don’t get any funding for capital expenses.”
“Small rural hospitals need community support to keep supporting the community,” agreed MHC president and CEO Paula Fields, who noted she too had known Mr. Trimmer (a friend of her father) all her life.
The ANAVETS are currently seeking new members for 176 Manitoulin. “If you have served in the military, police, fire, Ministry of Natural Resources or as a first responder, we would like you to consider becoming a member or just letting us know who you are,” said ANAVETS member Denis Blake. “Maybe you have special needs we may be able to assist you with or just to honour your service. Our main goal is to help our veterans and to give back to our community.”
For further information contact Brian Bird at 705-368-3976.
