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Rotarian Brian Hall (above) is the Polio coordinator with the Grand Bend Rotary Club. Rotary International has almost achieved their objective of eradicating polio in the world. However, it will still take millions of dollars more to inoculate the remaining children in the countries where Polio still exists.

In a local funding appeal that starting last November, the Rotary Club of Grand Bend asked the community to help and the Rotary Club would match these donation dollar for dollar. They are thrilled to report that over $9,300 in donations were received from the community and with the matching funds from the Grand Bend club, the local donation reach almost $20,000! In addition, the club has donated 5,000 more to this cause. After more generous matching of funds through a partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, these total donations to fight polio increase to over $70,000.

 Although Polio has not existed in North America since 1994, it must be totally eradicated worldwide before everyone is safe from a recurrence. It is the only way to protect our children forever. There are only 3 countries left where Polio has never been stopped. 

In 1985 there were 1000 cases of Polio a day – last year there have been only 385 cases worldwide. This $70,000 will certainly help in the final effort.

The Grand Bend Rotary Club wishes to thank the generous Grand Bend and area citizens for your continued support for Rotary projects.