Our focus is to promote health and wellness and encourage marginalized and vulnerable members of the community to play an active role in their own health. Begun in 1997, this innovative program supports and funds non-profit agencies in the Vancouver Coastal Health geographic region to develop projects that empower communities to better identify and manage their own health needs.
Watch these videos to see how our funding programs are changing lives and improving communities.
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BC Paraplegic Association (BCPA) Peer Support Program Jean became a paraplegic when the street sweeper he was repairing suddenly closed on him. Fortunately, Jean met Brad, a peer support volunteer with the BC Paraplegic Association (BCPA), who helped him through the rehab process and re-integrate into the community. BCPA Peer Support Program video. |
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Arts, Health & Seniors Douglas thought he would never heal from the chronic depression he faced for much of his life. The Arts Health & Seniors program (AHS), has given him an opportunity to use art to improve his health and wellness through self-exploration. Arts, Health & Seniors video. |
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Warriors Against Violence (WAVS) Jennifer first left her abusive partner when her daughter was 7 months old. Jennifer joined the Warriors Against Violence program (WAVS) and gained the skills and confidence to help her and her children heal from the scars of abuse and move on in life. Warriors Against Violence (WAVS) video. |
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Immigrant Services Society (ISS) Cross Cultural Peer Support Program Ajlin left everything behind when she arrived in Canada as a refugee. Through the Immigrant Services Society’s Cross Cultural Peer Support Program, Ajlin and other immigrant and refugee women learn to adapt to the challenges of a new life in Canada. ISS Cross Cultural Peer Support Program video. |
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Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Cleaning Solution Diagnosed with schizophrenia, John lived in a single room with no phone and no job for years. Now John has a job, an apartment and feels pride and a sense of meaning in what he does, thanks to the Cleaning Solution, (a CMHA program that provides green cleaning services staffed by people recovering from mental illness). CMHA Cleaning Solution video. |
If your organization wishes to be contacted in the event of a new funding announcement, please contact SMART Fund staff at smart@vch.ca.
