Time to nominate an amazing caregiver in Huron County for a Care and Compassion Award

By: Alexa Hugill

Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) is excited to be hosting a Caregiver Recognition Event on September 17, 2026. The event aims to celebrate and recognize caregivers and healthcare workers who have had a tremendous impact on the health and well-being of our rural communities.

According to the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence, more than one in four Canadians identify as caregivers, and many experience significant emotional, physical, and financial challenges while supporting others.

Whether they provide professional healthcare or care for a family member, friend, or neighbour, caregivers dedicate countless hours to supporting others.

Too often, the needs and wants of the caregiver go overlooked, and they feel as though they are not “seen” as they care for others in extenuating circumstances.

Our Caregiver Recognition Event is an opportunity to show caregivers that they are seen, appreciated, and valued in Huron County.

As Huron County's population continues to age, supporting and retaining local caregivers and healthcare professionals has never been more important. By recognizing their contributions, Gateway CERH hopes to foster a community where caregivers feel respected, supported, and encouraged to continue making a difference.

Community members are asked to nominate a caregiver through our nomination form and explain why they are deserving of a “Care & Compassion Award.”

The term "caregiver" includes anyone who provides care to others, including healthcare professionals, personal support workers, nurses, physicians, home care providers, volunteers, and informal caregivers supporting family members, friends, or neighbours.

When an individual is nominated, they are invited to the Recognition Event, which is free to attend for nominees and guests. At the event, nominees will receive a "Care & Compassion Award." The evening will also feature guest speakers and opportunities for attendees to connect and celebrate together.

Every nomination helps shine a light on the incredible caregivers who often work quietly behind the scenes. Gateway CERH encourages everyone to take a moment to recognize someone who has made a meaningful difference in their life or in the lives of others.

Nominations are now open and will be accepted until August 1, 2026.

The nomination form takes only a few minutes to complete and can be found at: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/ or Caregiver Recognition Event - Nomination Form – Fill out form

Individuals who would like to make a nomination and require assistance with making an online submission may contact Gateway CERH using the contact information below.

For more information, contact: Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health at

info@gatewayruralhealth.ca or 519-612-1053.