ISLAND WIDE – Island Health has awarded 50 Community Wellness Grants to organizations across Vancouver Island.
The Community Wellness Granting Program provides opportunities to create local partnerships to address the health and wellness of the population. In October 2016 Island Health issued a call for applications open to local government, community organizations and Aboriginal communities.
Island Health recognizes the importance of reducing future reliance on the health system and promoting healthy lifestyles. The Community Wellness Grants are part of Island Health's overall Engagement to Experience Framework. They are intended to enhance existing community resources, systems and networks that can positively influence health outcomes and make healthy choices easier for people living in our care region.
"Island Health was very pleased to receive such a great response to this new and exciting program. We are very pleased to partner on this diverse set of initiatives aimed at improving the health of our population" said Kathy MacNeil, Executive Vice President, Quality, Safety & Experience.
The grant application criteria included: frail seniors; mental health and substance use; healthy early childhood development; and the five modifiable risk factors which include access to healthy foods and physical activity. Funding is for the development and establishment of new programs/initiatives.
Within each of the four geographic areas of Island Health there are initiatives focused on healthy aging, access to healthy foods, vulnerable children, First Nations, and individuals suffering with mental health and addition issues. There are new programs being offered in almost every community within Island Health.