Officials in Black River-Matheson were all smiles Thursday as Agnico Eagle announced a $100,000 donation to Bingham Memorial Hospital. The funding will support the renovation of the hospital’s medical clinic, a project long anticipated by the community. A partnership for growth The contribution will create a modernized clinical space designed to improve access to healthcare and enhance physician recruitment. The township has been a steadfast partner in advancing the initiative. “This generous donation is an investment in the health and future of our community,” said Mayor in Black River-Matheson Dave Dyment, in a news release. Dyment emphasized the importance of corporate relationships for smaller communities. “It’s been a lot of networking, it’s been a lot of discussions with corporations, and corporations like Agnico Eagle we can only be very thankful they’re being a partner within our community and helping us grow, grow as a community, grow as a relationship between the two of us,” he said speaking to CTV News Aug. 6. The mayor added many Agnico Eagle employees call Black River-Matheson home, strengthening the connection between the company and the region. Investing in people Andre Leite, vice-president of Ontario operations for Agnico Eagle, framed the donation as a commitment to community wellbeing. “Strong communities depend on access to quality health care,” Leite said in the release. “At Agnico Eagle, we believe investments in community infrastructure are investments in people. We are proud to support … (the) work to strengthen local health-care services for residents today and for future generations.” The hospital expressed deep gratitude for the support. “Investments like this make a lasting difference for our community,” the hospital said. Bingham Memorial Hospital has served the area since 1921, when it was established as the Rosedale War Memorial Hospital. Official said the facility remains a cornerstone of healthcare in the town. With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca anchor Ian Campbell