A Port in the Storm, a newly-formed Thompson committee mandated to help raise money for the benefit of people living in Northern and rural Manitoba who have to stay in Winnipeg for extended lengths of time due to medical reasons, is starting to get the ball rolling with different activities.
James Crouch, manager for Sunlife Financial Centre in Thompson, is the chair of the committee. Crouch has 23 years of experience in financial services, including marketing, training, design, delivery, sales and consulting. He also is experienced in project managing.
"James will be an excellent leader for this project," says Penny Byer, a Northern board member of the A Port in the Storm committee. "His career background, community-mindedness and leadership skills will be wonderful assets for keeping the committee focused and successful."
A Port in the Storm will look to provide a safe and supportive environment close to major Winnipeg hospitals for people travelling to Winnipeg for medical reasons. The environment will also feature a home-like atmosphere and amenities, leisure activities for family, quiet spaces and opportunities for socializing and dining with other guests.
Crouch says there is a huge need for this type of project.
"In the Burntwood region alone, there are nearly 15,300 patient days each year spent in Winnipeg hospitals. The expenses of travel, accommodation and food are often crippling, especially if you have a family member with you," he explains. "Yet, having family present through these difficult times is important to hope and healing. It is a very big project, but one of the most worthwhile projects in terms of helping Northern and rural Manitobans."
Fundraising committees are being formed throughout Manitoba. The Thompson committee has identified $350,000 in fund raising activities which it plans to conduct over the next several months. People interested in helping on a fund raising project, those who would like to start their own or even make a donation can contact Crouch at 778-7081 ext. 222.
