The Wellness Funds program provides grants for community projects that take “upstream” action on health. It focuses on preventing poor outcomes rather than responding after they develop. The program supports new, innovative initiatives that align with local Community Health Board (CHB) priorities and involve active, ongoing participation from community members.

The program addresses social determinants of health, including income and social status, social support networks, education, employment, physical environments, healthy child development, and access to services. Projects are encouraged to incorporate equity considerations and reduce barriers to participation for underserved populations.

Eligible Activities:

Projects must be limited-term organized activities with defined goals and deliverables, driven by community needs. Examples of previously funded projects include intergenerational recreation programs, food literacy workshops, social connection initiatives, and community wellness activities.

Ineligible Activities:

• Health services (diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, one-on-one care)
• Counseling or therapeutic programs (licensed/registered therapist services)
• Infrastructure projects (buildings, renovations, playgrounds, trails, splashpads)
• Equipment purchases over $1,300 (including tax)
• Operating costs for existing programs
• Research, needs assessments, or evaluation projects
• Fundraising campaigns or charitable giving
• One-time events without clear health plan alignment
• Projects involving alcohol or cannabis

Key Program Requirements:

• Projects must be new to a specific community within the CHB area (no repeat funding for same project in same community)
• Project must align with local CHB Community Health Plan priorities
• Organizations with outstanding final reports from previous Wellness Fund projects are ineligible
• Equipment purchases up to $1,300 are eligible only if essential to the project's implementation
• Applicants must be able to receive, manage, and track funding
• Wages are only eligible for contracted positions or enhanced contract hours (not existing employee salaries)