Dear Petition Supporters,

Thank you for your continued support and advocacy for the inclusion of Cranbrook and Kimberley, BC, in the Provincial Rural Retention Initiative (PRRI). Your voices and dedication remain invaluable as we work toward ensuring equitable healthcare incentives in our communities.

As of today, we regret to inform you that we have yet to receive a response from the new Minister of Health regarding our petition, despite the critical nature of this issue. The recent expansion of the PRRI, announced on April 5, 2024, continues to exclude Cranbrook and Kimberley, even as neighboring communities such as Fernie, Invermere, Golden, and Creston remain eligible for these retention incentives.

This exclusion has exacerbated existing challenges, including staffing shortages in Acute Care, Long-Term Care, and community healthcare services in our region. Without access to the same incentives offered to nearby communities, Cranbrook and Kimberley risk facing significant workforce instability as healthcare professionals seek opportunities in PRRI-eligible areas.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for the inclusion of Cranbrook and Kimberley in the PRRI. The undersigned continue to emphasize the need for equitable distribution of healthcare incentives across all rural communities to prevent further strain on already fragile healthcare systems.

We respectfully call on the Government of BC to reconsider its decision and address this disparity. In the meantime, we encourage you to continue spreading awareness, engaging with local representatives, and supporting this vital cause.

Together, we can ensure that Cranbrook and Kimberley receive the recognition and support they deserve. Thank you for standing with us as we work toward this critical goal.

Sincerely,
Lisa Foxworthy
LPN