KAWARTHA LAKES-A groundbreaking ceremony was held today to officially mark the start of construction on the new Summit Wellness Centre in Coboconk.
“Today is an exciting day. I’m pleased to share in this milestone event as we break ground on a new and much-needed wellness centre. It’s also a reminder of what can be accomplished when Kawartha Lakes comes together with a shared purpose” said Doug Elmslie, Mayor, City of Kawartha Lakes. “I’d like to thank the Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce, their Staff and Board, for their leadership in this project. And we recognize today the countless community members who have fundraised over $1 million so far through a variety of creative ways. Thank you to all who have given time and resources to make today possible.”
Much of the fundraising for the centre was done by the community. More than a million dollars has been raised so far. Read more here:https://www.kawartha411.ca/2022/01/20/community-surpasses-goal-of-raising-1-million-for-new-wellness-centre/ and here:https://www.kawartha411.ca/2021/10/06/new-health-centre-in-coboconk-to-be-named-summit-wellness-centre/
“This is truly a community-driven project,” says Ian Forster, Chairperson of the Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce. “The community identified the need for the services that will be housed in the new building and the community came forward with strong support to help make it happen through donations, volunteer time, and community partnerships that are focused on planning for service delivery when the doors open. We are very grateful for that support, and to the City of Kawartha Lakes Council for their strong commitment to the project as well.”
During the construction of the building, the project team says it will continue to work with project partners to build on the gains made so far in the recruitment of physicians and nurse practitioners and other services identified as needed in the area. Fundraising efforts will continue as well to help equip the building.
“Today we can celebrate how community should work. This partnership with the Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Kawartha Lakes Council, and the residents of this area is a demonstration of how small communities can accomplish great things when we all come together,” says Councillor Emmett Yeo.
The Summit Wellness Centre is a $16 million project and plans to open in Spring 2025.