The Rocky Hospital Auxiliary has once again awarded two scholarships to West Country students pursuing careers in health care.

The 2026 recipients are Grace Houston, a David Thompson High School graduate who is in her third year of a nursing degree at Red Deer Polytechnic, and April Larsen, a Rocky Mountain House resident enrolled in the licensed practical nurse (LPN) program through Campus Alberta Central.

Campus Alberta Central partners with Red Deer Polytechnic to bring post-secondary education opportunities to rural communities.

The scholarships are among the initiatives funded through the auxiliary’s fundraising events throughout the year.

Next up is the auxiliary’s annual Pumpkin Pie, Tea and Coffee fundraiser. Residents are invited to enjoy tea and dessert in exchange for a $7 donation.

The fundraiser takes place Thursday Oct. 22 from noon to 2:30 p.m. at Memorial Presbyterian Church in Rocky Mountain House.

Along with its annual scholarships, the Rocky Hospital Auxiliary raises money to support needs at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre.

Auxiliary president Darlene Helmer says recent donations include Broda chairs for patients, bariatric beds, televisions, bedside tray tables, teddy bears for children in the emergency department, and more.