PELLA — Pella Regional Health Center (PRHC) and Knoxville Hospital & Clinics (KHC) recognized the Vermeer Charitable Foundation for their generous contribution of $1 million to the Bridging the Gap Campaign.

Gifts to the Bridging the Gap Campaign will help fund the South Central Iowa Radiation Center and support the partnership between PRHC and KHC to bring radiation therapy closer to home for patients across the region. This gift represents more than financial support – it reflects belief in our mission, confidence in our collaboration, and compassion for the patients and families we serve.

“The Vermeer Charitable Foundation is proud to support this investment in advanced radiation care. Access to high-quality healthcare close to home can make a meaningful difference for patients and families facing difficult diagnoses. We are honored to partner with organizations that are committed to improving treatment options, enhancing patient experiences, and strengthening the health of our communities for generations to come,” said Tricia Vermeer, Executive Director, Vermeer Charitable Foundation.

The state-of-the-art radiation oncology center is expected to be completed in early 2027 and will significantly improve access to cancer care for residents of Marion County and surrounding communities, reducing the need for travel to distant treatment centers.

The 7,800-square-foot facility will house advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, including:

• A linear accelerator to deliver highly precise radiation treatments.
• A PET/CT scanner, which plays a critical role in diagnosing cancer and determining the most effective course of treatment.

“We are deeply grateful to Vermeer Charitable Foundation for this extraordinary $1 million donation and for their continued commitment to the health and well-being of our community,” said Bob Kroese, CEO, Pella Regional Health Center. “This generous investment will help us offer radiation therapy services to enhance patient care and ensure families throughout our region have access to the high-quality healthcare close to home. Partnerships like this demonstrate the powerful impact local organizations can have when they come together to support their community.”

“I am extremely grateful for the generosity and partnership of the Vermeer Charitable Foundation in supporting the Bridging the Gap Campaign. Because of their compassion and commitment to Marion County, we will be able to provide advanced care close to home for many patients, families, and caregivers in our region. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to stand together in caring for one another,” said Kevin Kincaid, CEO of Knoxville Hospital & Clinics.

The South Central Iowa Radiation Center is projected to cost $14.3 million, with the majority of funding to be raised through the Bridging the Gap Campaign, led by the hospital foundations of PRHC and KHC.