The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH) celebrated the donation in September. (Photo: Submitted)
The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH) celebrated the donation in September. (Photo: Submitted)

Philanthropist's generous contribution enhances rural healthcare

The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH) is celebrating its new name along with a generous $1.5 million donation aimed at enhancing the well-being of rural communities in Saskatchewan.

By Sherry Buckler, Director of Advancement

Dr. Shelley Kirychuk (PhD), CCRAH's director, expressed immense gratitude for the transformative gift. The anonymous donor's contribution will fund a mobile unit that will travel throughout rural Saskatchewan, providing essential primary healthcare services and facilitating agile field research in rural Saskatchewan.

This mobile unit marks a significant advancement for CCRAH, which traditionally operates in rural areas but previously lacked a mobile service centre to reach more people. It will extend support to rural communities and farmers, offering services and improving residents' quality of life. Kirychuk emphasized that the donor's passion for rural health is what made this expansion possible and will enhance the centre's visibility and partnerships in rural regions.

The celebration of the new name coincided with the announcement of the generous gift during CCRAH's open house. The centre officially adopted its new name on June 1, 2023, emphasizing its commitment to rural Saskatchewan and a broad range of health and safety initiatives, including agriculture, dementia care, ergonomics, injury prevention, access to care, and Indigenous community support.

In its nearly 38-year history, CCRAH has consistently expanded its research and services. The donation will also have a significant impact on the Agricultural Health and Safety Network (AHSN), a crucial program connecting nearly 200 rural municipalities with services and knowledge mobilization for farmers and their families.

To learn more about CCRAH and to make a gift to support their critical work, visit www.cchsa-ccssma.usask.ca