District of Muskoka declares April as "Be a Donor Month"

Bracebridge ranks #1 in Ontario for organ and tissue donation

The District of Muskoka declared April as "Be a Donor Month," in the April 20, 2026, Council meeting.

The proclamation approved by District Council aligns with a province-wide initiative aimed at promoting organ and tissue donation across Ontario. The campaign is intended to raise awareness, encourage conversations, and increase donor registration among residents.

According to the report presented to Council, April was formally established as "Be a Donor Month" in the province as part of efforts to organize and promote donor registration. The initiative highlights the ongoing need for organ and tissue donors and the life-saving impact that donations can have for individuals waiting for transplants.

The proclamation falls under the District's policy on proclamations and declarations, which enables Council to formally recognize initiatives that support public awareness and community well-being.

While largely ceremonial, the declaration reflects Council's support for ongoing efforts to promote organ and tissue donation and to encourage residents to take part in the initiative.

Through the proclamation, the District is encouraging residents to learn more about organ and tissue donation and to consider registering as donors. Officials emphasized that increasing awareness and participation at the community level can help address the demand for transplants across the province.

Councillor, Sandy Cairns, indicated that the “Muskoka Gift of Life Association celebrates the region that leads the entire province registered as organ and tissue donors.”

Cairns explained, “Bracebridge ranks number one in Ontario for organ and tissue donation, registered with an outstanding 59% of residents registered. A remarkable achievement that reflects the compassion and spirit of this community.”

She also expressed appreciation for the flag raising in Bracebridge this morning and said the falls in that Town will be lit up in green to honour “Be a Donor” during the month of April.

The Town’s rank is followed by Lake of Bays at 56%, Gravenhurst 53%, Huntsville 52%, and Muskoka Lakes and Georgian Bay at 50% - “all above the provincial average of 35%,” said Cairns.

Residents interested in becoming donors are directed to register through the official provincial website at BeADonor.ca. The site provides information about the donation process and allows individuals to record their consent to donate.

Cairns advised, “Be sure your family is aware because if you are a donor your family still has the opportunity to say ‘no, we don’t want that to happen.’ And so, make your wishes well know to your family members.”