Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
MIDDLESEX COUNTY - The community-driven pop tab collection initiative, led by Melbourne resident Gordon Robbins, continues to make significant progress in support of Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital. With a focus on funding crucial MRI accessories, the campaign has expanded its reach, now featuring collection buckets in several towns across Middlesex County, including Strathroy, Mount Brydges, Glencoe, and others.
Gordon Robbins, the organizer behind this expansive effort, shared, “We’re now up to 165 collection containers strategically placed to engage as much of the community as possible.”
The initiative targets the acquisition of essential MRI equipment accessories, such as a specialized wheelchair and advanced scanner tools. “We’ve paid for some of the procedure items, and we’re gearing up for the next purchase of tools for the brain scanner. It’s quite the undertaking, considering these items are quite pricey, like the special wheelchair we need, which is worth $10,000 because it can’t have any metal,” explained Robbins.
Robbins highlighted the unique challenges and achievements of the campaign, “Some locations don’t produce a lot, but others are real gold mines. The hospital is where we get the bulk of our distributions.” The innovative use of everyday items to raise funds underscores the community’s inventive approach to supporting their local hospital.
The campaign’s success is evident in the enthusiastic participation from local schools, businesses, and even indigenous communities, with bins also placed at both local and indigenous gas stations. “We’ve also got a collaboration going with the scouts, and it’s proving to be a fruitful partnership,” added Robbins.
As this initiative grows, Robbins and his team are preparing to continue the drive until Thanksgiving 2025, with hopes of reaching broader community segments. Residents interested in contributing can find buckets at various locations across the region, including a new bucket at our office in Strathroy, located at 71 C Front Street West.
While the community’s effort may potentially set a Guinness world record, the primary focus remains on enhancing healthcare access and facilities at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital—a testament to the power of collective community action.
