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[South Dakota] — As a fitting close to a first of its kind Cowboys Care Bull Bash event held in Isabel, South Dakota Saturday evening, the Horizon Health Foundation announced a transformational donation of $1 million from Community Health Advocates (CHA). This generous gift marks a significant milestone in the effort to sustain and enhance medical, dental and behavioral health services in rural areas across South Dakota.
The donation from CHA comes as the organization concludes its operations. "As Community Health Advocates winds down its operations, we have been intentional about identifying organizations that are committed to delivering community-based health care as stewards of our assets,” said John Mengenhausen, CHA Board Chair. “Horizon Health Foundation is committed to making health care accessible and affordable to individuals and families in rural communities that are increasingly overlooked by our health care system. Horizon’s mission connects closely to what we’ve stood for throughout our history — and we’re delighted to make this gift to help advance its important and timely work.”
The funds will be used to ensure that comprehensive health care options remain available throughout South Dakota's rural communities. Specifically, the donation will support initiatives to recruit and retain health care professionals in rural and frontier areas, where access to services is often limited.
Wade Erickson, CEO of Horizon Health, expressed his gratitude, stating, "This incredible gift from Community Health Advocates will play a crucial role in our ongoing efforts to recruit and retain top-notch talent in rural South Dakota. Our mission to provide high-quality health care is greatly strengthened by this generous donation. It ensures that we can continue to offer essential services to our communities, just where they are needed most."
Tracy Pardy, Executive Director of Horizon Health Foundation, added, "We are immensely grateful to CHA for their trust and support. This donation not only empowers us to enhance our recruitment and retention initiatives but also underlines the trust and commitment this community has in our healthcare organization – we believe this gift is just the beginning as we provide real value to our state’s rural communities "
The Horizon Health Foundation continues to work tirelessly to support the health and well-being of all South Dakotans, particularly those in rural areas. Organized just eight years ago, the Horizon Health Foundation is just getting started in fulfilling its commitment to create a healthier future for countless individuals and families.
“To date we have helped nearly 6,000 patients with food insecurity, transportation, cancer care, and children’s oral health and several capital projects to remodel clinics and purchase new equipment,” Pardy said.
Click the link to see a short video announcing the gift and pictures from the Bull Bash – Bull Bash 1M Gift Video
About Horizon Health Foundation
The Horizon Health Foundation supports the work of Horizon Health by raising funds and awareness to help provide essential health care services in rural communities across South Dakota. Through philanthropic support, the foundation enables innovations in care and ensures the availability of medical services to all, regardless of their ability to pay. www.horizonhealthfoundation.com
For more information, please contact: Tracy Pardy, tpardy@horizonhealthcare.org, 605-772-4553