The South Muskoka Hospital Foundation (SMHF) is now accepting applications for their 2026 Educational Assistance Awards, a program designed to support both local students and hospital staff pursuing education and professional development in the field of health care.
Established in 2023, the Educational Assistance Awards reflect the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening local healthcare by investing in people. Since the program began, SMHF has awarded funding to four hospital staff members and four students from South Muskoka, helping reduce financial barriers and support career pathways that benefit patients and the wider community.
“We’re proud to support our healthcare teams in advancing their education and careers at the hospital. It shows our gratitude and belief in all that they do to care for the community,” says Leah Walker, SMHF Executive Director, “We hope graduating students are encouraged to return to South Muskoka Hospital knowing their Foundation and community supports them.”
For student recipients, the impact can make a real difference. Maiya Dyni, a 2025 Educational Assistance Award recipient and Medical Sciences student, shared how the award supports her academic goals:
“This award has lightened my financial load, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and take part in meaningful extra-curricular opportunities. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a doctor, and this grant is helping turn that dream into a reality.”
Maiya also expressed her hope of returning to South Muskoka one day to both live and work as a physician, giving back to the community that invested in her education.
Applications for the 2026 Educational Assistance Awards are now open. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026, at 4:00 pm. Full eligibility criteria and application details can be found at HealthMuskoka.ca/currentneeds. Community members interested in supporting the Educational Assistance Awards are encouraged to visit HealthMuskoka.ca/donate or contact the Foundation team directly.
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