In a significant boost to Manitoba healthcare, the Western Communities Foundation, the charitable arm of Western Financial Group, and Wawanesa Insurance have jointly donated USD 100,000 to the Health Sciences Centre (HSC) Foundation’s Operation Excellence Campaign.

Announced on Wednesday, this contribution will fund state-of-the-art surgical equipment at Manitoba’s largest hospital, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and advance surgical innovation.

The donation reflects a shared commitment by both organizations to foster healthier, stronger communities across Canada, ensuring that Manitobans have access to top-tier medical care when they need it most, the company said in a statement.

The Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg is a cornerstone of Manitoba healthcare, serving countless families, friends, and neighbours across the province.

Evan Johnston, President and CEO of Wawanesa, emphasized the personal connection many feel to the hospital. “As a company that calls Manitoba home, we all know someone who has relied on HSC’s care, whether it be a family member, friend, or neighbour,” Johnston said.

“This donation continues our 129-year tradition of supporting Manitobans. By partnering with Western Financial Group, we’re helping ensure our community benefits from cutting-edge healthcare that saves lives and improves wellbeing.”

Grant Ostir, CEO of Western Financial Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the human impact of the donation. “At the Western Communities Foundation, we’re dedicated to standing by Canadians in moments that matter,” Ostir said.

“This $100,000 gift will support HSC’s investment in advanced surgical tools, leading to better patient care, higher survival rates, and stronger communities. We’re proud to work alongside Wawanesa to support the frontline healthcare teams who make excellence in Manitoba healthcare possible every day.”

The donation is part of the broader mission of the Western Communities Foundation, established in 2001, to build safer and stronger communities across Canada.

In 2025, the Foundation has continued its impactful work, from aiding wildfire recovery efforts to funding youth education through bursaries and supporting vital infrastructure projects nationwide.

Since its inception, the Foundation has donated over USD 9 million to community initiatives, creating spaces where Canadians can thrive. For more details on their efforts, visit www.westerncares.ca.

Wawanesa Insurance, a mutual insurer founded in 1896, also plays a significant role in community support, investing USD 3.5 million annually through its community impact program. This includes initiatives like Wawanesa Climate Champions, which funds projects to build climate resiliency, as well as other programs that strengthen the communities where their members, employees, and broker partners live and work.

With over USD 4 billion in annual revenue and USD 11.5 billion in assets, Wawanesa serves 1.87 million members across Canada through its subsidiaries, Wawanesa Life and Western Financial Group. Learn more about their community efforts at www.wawanesa.com/canada/community-impact.

The USD 100,000 donation to HSC’s Operation Excellence Campaign is a lifeline for Manitoba healthcare, ensuring that patients receive world-class treatment during critical moments.

The campaign focuses on equipping the hospital with advanced technology to improve surgical precision and patient recovery, directly impacting lives across the province. For more information about the campaign and its goals, visit https://www.operationexcellence.ca.

This partnership between Wawanesa and the Western Communities Foundation underscores the power of collaboration in addressing community needs. By investing in Manitoba healthcare, these organizations are not only enhancing medical care but also reinforcing their commitment to the people of Manitoba. Whether it’s a life-saving surgery or a routine procedure, this donation ensures that HSC remains a beacon of hope and healing for all Manitobans.