From program in West Hants that provides meals for community members with various health needs; to an intergenerational podcast bringing Lunenburg County youth and seniors together, our Wellness Fund supports community projects across the province that help Nova Scotians lead healthier lives.
If you know of an innovative non-profit initiative that would benefit from financial assistance and has not been previously supported by a Wellness Fund, now is the time to apply for Wellness Funds through your local community health board (CHB).
The Wellness Fund typically awards anywhere from $500 to $3,500 for eligible projects, with other examples ranging from a community garden potato patch in Dartmouth, to afternoon game socials at the Forties Community Centre in New Ross. Applicants can request up to $3,500.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of being a community health board member is overseeing the distribution of wellness funds,” said Lori Coughlin, co-chair of the Cobequid Community Health Board. “It’s inspiring to see how these funds empower community groups to test new project ideas, spark meaningful conversations, and create lasting impacts. These funds have supported a wide range of impactful initiatives, from school food box programs and cooking classes for students, to exploring Indigenous culture, offering drum fit classes for individuals with intellectual disabilities, and providing sewing programs for immigrants, all of which foster learning, connection and community well-being.”
“This year’s new health plan unlocks a broad horizon of possibilities for our wellness fund disbursement,” added Sabrina Gannon, chair of Lunenburg County Community Health Board. “It’s a highlight of community health board work for members to be able to support and champion the changemakers in our local community through this funding. I am so excited and hopeful to see what ideas our community brings to the table when it comes to improving health and wellness, and I’m proud to share that such an accessible form of funding is available through community health boards.”
There are 35 community health boards across the province. You can apply to more than one community health board if your project occurs in more than one CHB area; however, a separate application is required. It is possible that not all projects submitted will receive funds, as CHBs frequently receive more applications than available funds, but all eligible groups are encouraged to apply.
Applications and additional information are available at www.communityhealthboards.ns.ca/wellness-funds. The deadline for applications is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.