United Way BC Central & Northern Vancouver Island Region
Serving Central and Northern Vancouver Island, as well as Powell River and qathet Regional District. Encompassing a diverse and vibrant mix of people and cultures living in the regions, we work with communities to help them thrive.
Local Impact
Learn more about the impact we’re making in the region.
Supporting children and youth mental health
Our School’s Out programs ensure vulnerable school-aged children in British Columbia have access to safe spaces where they can get the mental wellness and developmental support they need during the critical hours between 3 to 6 pm. In Central & Northern Vancouver Island over 160 children and youth benefitted from barrier-free programming that provides educational, cultural, and physical activities.
In 2023 a new School’s Out program began in Powell River to help children and youth develop positive social behaviours and lifestyles.
Tackling period poverty
By collecting and distributing 12,271 menstrual products in 2023 as part of the Period Promise campaign to help those who struggle to purchase products, break stigma, and raise the profile of the issue in our community. Some of the local agencies that received product donations from past Period Promise campaigns include the Forward House Community Society, Wisteria Community Association, Sage Haven, North Island Metis Association, Cowichan Green Community Foundation, and Ladysmith Family & Friends.
Expanding access to essential services
By facilitating the Transportation Assistance Program in Cowichan. Over 5,000 transit tickets were given out to our vulnerable neighbours to help provide access to food, medical, and counselling appointments, employment supports, children or senior services, and justice.
Investing in our communities
In addition, with the dedication and knowledge of the government and community members on the Reaching Home Community Advisory Boards in Cowichan and Nanaimo, we are investing $3 million in 2023 into homelessness services across the region.
In 2021, over $40,000 was distributed to people in Powell River & the qathet regional district via Danielle’s Helping Hand.
Programs
Learn more about our work in the region.
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Reaching Home
Preventing, addressing, and working towards reducing chronic homelessness.
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Period Promise
Lack of access to menstrual products is a widespread issue. You can help.
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Healthy Aging
Programs designed to help aging British Columbians remain active, connected, and engaged in their existing communities.
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School’s Out
Providing healthy, safe, educational out-of-school activities for kids in Grades 1-7.
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Food Security
Supporting British Columbians’ health and wellness through food security.
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Danielle’s Helping Hand
Impact Stories
Local love in your community.
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Exploring food security in Cowichan
Supported by funding from United Way BC, Cowichan Green Community Society’s Food Recovery Project brings accessible and affordable food to the region.
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A Circle of Support at Ladysmith Family & Friends
From the circle created within the hall with different activities, a shared pantry, clothing exchange, and meals, to the circle of support provided by the staff and volunteers, participants and children are held within a space of care and love.
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A safe & supportive community for residents
A safe place for many who lived on the street, this complex is a thriving community that embraces the artistic natures and green thumbs of its residents.
Events
There are no events scheduled in your area. Check back later or follow us on social media to hear about new events.
Contact Us
Contact the Central & Northern Vancouver Island team.
Tel: 250-591-8731
Email: info-cnvi@uwbc.ca