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Early support didn’t just help Cohen play—it helped him believe

We first met Cohen when he and his sister, Sophia, brought us a donation—they had saved up their earnings from doing household chores to help other kids. Not long afterwards,...
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Ann’s story: A year at the Queen Alexandra Solarium

Ann was nine years old when she moved to Victoria from Salmon Arm with her parents and three siblings. Not long afterwards, she became ill with rheumatic fever and spent...
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Rooted in community: Rhonda’s ongoing dedication to Jeneece Place

Once a month, Rhonda walks into the kitchen at Jeneece Place carrying bags of groceries she’s purchased with the help of her boss. With her son by her side, she...
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A conversation with our House Managers

We all know the saying ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ but our House Managers understand it at their core. They see this phrase brought to life each...
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Why we give: The Gosselins’ story

For Penny and Roger Gosselin, giving back has always been a way of life. Retired educators and dedicated monthly donors to both Jeneece Place and Q̓ʷalayu House, they are among...
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“A lot less stress and a lot more time to visit my kid”: The essence of Jeneece Place

Dahlia is a spirited three-year-old who loves typical toddler things – dinosaurs, colouring, and playing in her toy kitchen. However, her entrance into the world was far from ordinary. Born...
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How Ocean Grove Midwifery and Q̓ʷalayu House team up to support North Island families

Partnerships with health care professionals across the Island are integral to the success of our Homes away from home program. It’s often how families first learn about it. That’s why...
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Finding strength at Jeneece Place: A mother’s journey 

Since his birth in March 2023, Bellamy, with his infectious smile and bright blue eyes, has been a great source of joy for his family. It’s what’s helped them through...
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How an adaptive bike from Bear Essentials changed Roland’s life

From the moment he was born, Roland was a happy and joyful boy, always laughing and squealing with delight. However, his parents, Aubrey and Jeremy, began to notice differences as...
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Now and then: How Bear Essentials helped this Parksville family

A few years ago, we introduced you to Heather, Wyatt, and Kason from Parksville. Living on Vancouver Island with her two sons, Heather’s experienced both the highs and lows that...
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Celebrating three years of Q̓ʷalayu House

When Q̓ʷalayu House first opened its doors in the summer of 2021, its goal was clear: to provide a safe and welcoming space for families from outside Campbell River, allowing...
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The story behind the banana cake

At our Homes away from home, we’ve seen how food can bring comfort to families in the tougher moments. And we love it when guests share their favourite recipes with...