(Image Credit: File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Looking to raise $1 million

HDHF heliport fundraiser eclipses $200k

Mar 25, 2026 | 8:00 AM

Fundraising continues for the onsite heliport in Humboldt. 

The Humboldt District Health Foundation (HDHF), celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026, is spearheading the project.  

Both the Saskatchewan Health Authority and Ministry of Health endorsed the start of fundraising for the heliport.  

STARS Air Ambulance stopped landing at the temporary onsite pad at the hospital last June, as the former site no longer met safety standards. After that, STARS began to land at Humboldt Airport. Since that time, there have been five successful STARS landings at the airport. Bunko said the airport, Humboldt EMS, STARS, and CN have all worked together and are aware of the situation in Humboldt. 

“Since STARS is landing temporarily at Humboldt Airport, we must assure the public that effective procedures are in place for transporting the STARS team and patient to and from the hospital,” HDHF Executive Director Lorrie Bunko said. 

Looking to raise $1 million

HDHF heliport fundraiser eclipses $200k

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She told northeastNOW that the project is unlike anything the foundation has undertaken thus far. 

“Typically, we receive a funding request that includes the project scope, quoted cost, and other important details,” Bunko said. “For this particular project, the foundation had to do the investigative work and set our commitment amount.” 

The campaign has gone well thus far, as Bunko said they have raised $203,000. Bunko said they have committed to fundraising $1 million toward the onsite heliport at the hospital, which is in line with similar projects in the province. 

“We have set no deadline for this project. Ultimately, we need the project’s estimated cost and the heliport’s exact location.” 

Bunko said all donations make a difference, and donations of all denominations add up quickly. There are also many third-party fundraisers supporting the campaign. You can donate by contacting the Humboldt District Health Foundation. 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com