/| , /by

From grids to gardens: How one BC Hydro employee inspired his community to give back

In Campbell River, where the hum of power grids meets the tranquility of coastal living, Andrew, a communications protection and control technologist at BC Hydro, discovered the impact of community...
/| , , /by

What it means to put the health of Island kids first

For nearly 100 years, we’ve been supporting the health of Island kids. And in that time, our organization has been known by different names. Our programs have evolved to support...
/| , /by

How Bear Essentials helped this dancer hear her melody

In the heart of Victoria, 11-year-old Abi isn’t just a middle schooler and competitive dancer; she’s a young girl grappling with an unexpected adversary — hearing loss. Her journey began...
/| , /by

A culture of compassion

In a retirement community nestled in the West Shore, a remarkable woman named Beth resides, embodying a life rich in gratitude and compassion. Her story is one of a deep...
/| , /by

Then and now: How Bear Essentials is improving Jackson’s life

Jackson, called “Jax” by his family and friends, has an infectious laugh and an amazing “go with the flow” attitude.  A happy twelve-year old, Jax lives with his parents Tracey...
/| , /by

How giving forward changes lives: Margaret’s gift to future generations

Margaret Smith lived on a quiet street in Cordova Bay, in a house with views of the lush, green Cordova Bay Golf Course on one side and the ocean on...
/| /by

How this volunteer-turned-employee appreciates the value of a simple act

It all starts somewhere. A friend of a friend, a colleague, a family member – someone tells you about an opportunity and you jump on it. That’s exactly what happened...
/| , /by

Meet Island kid Talia: How this Comox Valley family receives critical support from Jeneece Place and Bear Essentials

Talia is described by her mom, Kelsey, as a happy and kind-hearted girl who loves My Little Pony and the Disney movie Moana. Talia turns ten this month and since...
/| , /by

How a shift in the philosophy of care helped transform the lives of children and their families

This story is part of a series that celebrates the legacy of the Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health, paying tribute to the origins of Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver...
/| , /by

How your support helps Island kids like Cohen

Island kid Cohen is a bright light who is always excited to start the day. At 11 years old, he loves engaging with other kids through sports and physical activity,...
/| , /by

Jeneece Place: A decade of compassionate care for Island families

January 21, 2022, marked 10 years to the day since we opened the doors of Jeneece Place and began welcoming families of children receiving medical treatment in Victoria. Since its...
/| , /by

Meet Elysia and her mom Rocio: How Jeneece Place and Bear Essentials have helped this Qualicum family

We’re all too familiar with the COVID virus, and you’ve heard of the Norwalk virus and the chicken pox virus, but have you heard of Cytomegalovirus (CMV)? It’s a common...