The City of Morden, RM of Stanley, and Agassiz Physicians Medical Corps have made long-term commitments to aid financially in an expansion project and capital costs for the Agassiz Medical Centre.

The estimated $1.2 million project will develop new and redevelop current space at the clinic to increase efficiency.

According to the centre's Community Board of Directors, many areas in the clinic are too small or don't function efficiently with the number of patients and staff at the clinic. In addition, roughly 1,600 people are on a waiting list for a general practitioner.

A representative for Stanley Council, Alfred (Bitz) Loewen, says it was important to ensure the health of their constituents. "Everybody needs a clinic or a physician at one time, and we felt it was an integral part of life here in Stanley and Morden."

The project will allow the clinic to kickstart its future, says Morden Mayor Brandon Burley, and an idea everyone can stand behind. "We're really proud to be able to partner with quality people, quality organizations; we certainly would not be getting into this if we did not believe in the value of what we are doing."

Committed to raising $500,000, the board is issuing a call to action for people to take charge in aiding their community.

Board member and Fundraising Chair, Bob Wahl, says on top of a $10,000 donation from the Morden Elks, individuals and businesses have begun to give financial support for the cause. It's been a great start says Wahl, and notes the board will begin a campaign shortly to let people know why they're here and the purpose of why they need funds.