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The Jessiman Foundation’s generous donation

The Jessiman Foundation’s second major gift will help to transform Manitobans’ lives over the next four years.

Manitobans will have faster access to dementia supports through the Alzheimer Society thanks to a transformative gift from The Jessiman Foundation.  

This $625,000 commitment over four years will strengthen dementia services across the province, marking The Jessiman Foundation’s second major gift and deepening a valued partnership. 

“We are proud to continue our partnership with the Alzheimer Society so families affected by dementia always have a place to turn,” says Peter Jessiman. “The number of people living with dementia is staggering, and knowing there is an organization dedicated to surrounding them with community and support is deeply meaningful to us.”

Dementia can leave families feeling uncertain and isolated, and for many, the Alzheimer Society is a lifeline — providing timely guidance, ongoing check-ins and connection to a community of others who understand.  

Six members of The Jessiman Foundation and the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba's CEO, Erin Crawford, standing and sitting in warm, neutral coloured clothing.
The Jessiman Foundation and Alzheimer Society of Manitoba’s CEO, Erin Crawford. (Left to right, standing): Susan Deleau, Cady Blight, Erin Crawford, Peter Jessiman (Sitting): Heather Jessiman, Duncan Jessiman, Dana Jessiman

A gift of hope

“We are incredibly grateful to The Jessiman Foundation for their generosity and leadership,” says Erin Crawford, CEO, Alzheimer Society of Manitoba. “This gift brings hope — hope that more families will find the support they need, hope that people living with dementia will feel a community standing beside them, and hope that together, we can build a stronger future for dementia care in Manitoba.” 

As Manitoba’s leading organization for dementia support, the Alzheimer Society provides guidance and support for anyone affected by dementia — whether they are worried about symptoms, newly diagnosed, further along in the disease, a care partner, family or friend.  

The Alzheimer Society connects with over 6,630 clients through our First Link® Client Support program. With the increased staffing this funding allows, the Society can keep pace with a growing number of calls, connect with clients sooner, check in more often and expand specialized support groups.   

“More than 20,300 Manitobans are living with dementia — and that number is expected to double in the coming years,” states Crawford. “Over 80 per cent of our funding comes from our donors. We urgently need to look to the future and expand further, before the numbers overwhelm our system again.” 

The Alzheimer Society is grateful for The Jessiman Foundation’s investment and invites others to join this effort. With dementia numbers rising rapidly, community support is essential to strengthening dementia supports across the province. 

Together, we can ensure every family in Manitoba has a clear path forward — so that no one faces dementia alone.  

Our First Link team is here to help.