LONDON, ON, Feb. 26 /CNW/ - Today, The Co-operators announced a $30,000
donation to St. Joseph's Health Care, London. St. Joseph's has launched a new
research centre dedicated to the translation of research knowledge to the
bedside and into the community in the fields of aging, rehabilitation,
geriatric care, wound care and assistive technology. The Aging, Rehabilitation
& Geriatric Care Research Centre will aim to support national collaborative
research networks and attract medical students, interns and young scientists
to these dynamic fields of study.
    "The Co-operators has shown true community leadership through this
significant gift," said Michelle Campbell, President and CEO of St. Joseph's
Health Care Foundation. "The Centre's launch is timely as we grapple in Canada
with the issue of how to care effectively for an aging population. The
Co-operators has shown great vision by supporting these medical specialties."
    The Co-operators was led to this initiative by Co-operators agent Joe
Barnes of London, and local agent Patrick Zeversenuke has also lent his
support. With The Co-operators donation, St Joseph's Health Centre Foundation
has reached its goal of $2.8 million of individual and corporate donations
needed to build and equip the state-of-the-art facility.
    With the baby-boom generation advancing toward the age of retirement,
record numbers of Canadians are turning their thoughts toward achieving not
only financial security, but also lasting medical health. The study of
geriatrics will be of increasing relevance as record numbers of retirees begin
to place pressure on provincial elder care systems. The Co-operators believes
that all Canadians deserve the opportunity to secure safe and happy golden
years to spend with their friends and loved ones. Supporting London's new
Aging, Rehabilitation & Geriatric Care Research Centre was a significant and
measurable way for the company to contribute to that ideal.
    The Co-operators president and CEO, Kathy Bardswick, explains "Not only
will this new partnership advance the study of critically important scientific
fields, but it will also enhance London and south western Ontario's reputation
as a leading hub of medical research and care. This is an opportunity for my
organization to exercise local leadership - and surely there is no cause
greater than extending the healing potential of modern science."

    About The Co-operators:

    Based in Guelph, Ontario, The Co-operators is a group of Canadian
companies offering home, auto, life, group, commercial and farm insurance, as
well as investment products and property development. With assets of more than
$6.5 billion, The Co-operators is owned by 34 Canadian co-operatives, credit
unions and like-minded organizations. It is well known for its community
involvement, and is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada.

For further information: Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators,
1-877-795-7272, ext. 2707