Children’s Health Foundation Vancouver Island - Qwalayu House

Organization Mission Statement

Invest in the health of children and their families to ensure all island kids have access to the health care they need. Children’s Health Foundation is committed to bring programs and specialized supports closer to home.

The organization serves the following population

Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island serves kids and families from Vancouver Island and surrounding islands. Last year, the Foundation touched the lives of 15,753 kids, youth and families across Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands.

The funds donated will be used to

Funds will be used to support Q̓ ʷalayu House, a home away from home for families from the North Island region and the surrounding islands who need to travel to Campbell River to access maternal and pediatric care. 

Pregnant mothers and children in the North Island and surrounding islands struggle to access maternal and pediatric care. A lack of local health resources in their home communities means they must travel to access care in Campbell River, at a significant cost to their financial and emotional well-being. Q̓ ʷalayu House provides a safe, comfortable and supportive place for the entire family to stay, alleviating their emotional and financial stress. 

Located adjacent to the North Island Hospital, Q̓ ʷalayu House is staffed 24/7 and offers private spaces for families to rest and recharge as well as shared spaces designed to promote community building. The House offers ten private rooms with ensuite washrooms, a shared kitchen and dining area, and family lounges where families can connect, relax and restore. 

The health and wellbeing of women, children, youth, and families is at the core of Q̓ ʷalayu House. Some families may spend several weeks at Q̓ ʷalayu House. First-time mothers or women with high-risk pregnancies must arrive in Campbell River several weeks prior to their due date. By creating a nurturing space for families who are travelling alone or with extended families, they feel supported and at home while staying at Q̓ ʷalayu House. 

Navigation supports are offered to connect families to local service providers and community networks so they can benefit from additional resources throughout the region. Q̓ ʷalayu provides family-centred care in a safe and respectful environment, and strives to foster long-term relationships and a lasting sense of trust among our Qʷalayu families and with the broader community.

The organizations current sources of funding are

Foundation and corporate grants, legacy gifts, one-time and monthly donors, and fundraising efforts.

 

Visit their website for more information: islandkidsfirst.com

 

This nomination has been reviewed by the 100 Women Who Care committee and meets all criteria.