Alberta Blue Cross is bringing back its very popular Community Wellbeing grant program for 2025, to support the diverse work of community organizations promoting the physical, mental and social wellbeing of Albertans.
“We were overwhelmed last year by the positive response to this program, with more than 650 applications from across the province,” says Brian Geislinger, senior vice-president of Corporate Relations and Community Engagement with Alberta Blue Cross. “So, we’re thrilled to be able to continue to provide this support again through 2025.”
The Community Wellbeing grant program was launched in conjunction with the 75th Anniversary of Alberta Blue Cross in 2023 and was extended into 2024 where it awarded 50 community organizations with a $1,000 grant each to support wellbeing in their communities. Funding for the program is provided through the Alberta Blue Cross community foundation.
Until April 30, Alberta Blue Cross welcomes applications and nominations from urban and rural Alberta-based organizations (including Alberta chapters of national organizations) that promote the physical, mental or social wellbeing of community members. This includes organizations that support newcomers and refugees, seniors, families, vulnerable youth, children, LGBTQ2S+, individuals with disabilities, individuals requiring mental health support, Indigenous Peoples and visible minorities. Applications can be submitted on the Alberta Blue Cross website.
Each organization awarded with the grant helps Albertan communities thrive.
The 2024 Alberta Blue Cross Community Wellbeing grant recipients have incredible stories, highlighting their work, including the following:
Amy’s House
Amy’s House provides free accommodations for families travelling over 100 km to Edmonton for cancer treatment. The organization has 2 homes located 12 minutes from the Royal Alexandra Hospital, the University of Alberta Hospital and the Cross Cancer Institute for families to stay. The Community Wellbeing grant will help maintain their homes and ensure families can stay for free.
Calgary Veterans Services Society
The Calgary Veterans Services Society is a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders by providing access to nutritious food and essential services. Through their food bank, financial assistance and therapy services, the organization helps individuals navigate challenges and improve their quality of life. The grant will supply critical food bank items that are often missing.
Dress for Success Central Alberta Women’s Centre
Dress for Success Central Alberta is an inclusive community in Red Deer that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, career development tools and a support network. The organization helps women break the cycle of poverty, achieve financial stability and thrive in their careers and personal lives. The Community Wellbeing grant will expand the availability of their “Confidence Kits” which include personal hygiene items, a certificate for a haircut and manicure and more.
Lac La Biche Aboriginal Head Start, Lac La Biche
Lac La Biche Aboriginal Head Start organizes family and cultural activities—like moccasin and drum workshops—that promote community engagement and build stronger family relations. The grant will support Lac La Biche Aboriginal Head Start’s programs and provide funds for necessary supplies.
The full list of the 2024 Community Wellbeing recipients and their stories are available on the community website.
As Alberta’s largest provider of health and dental benefits, Alberta Blue Cross is committed to serving as a champion for wellbeing by promoting the health of Albertans.
For more information, please contact Sharmin Hislop, director, Corporate Communications, Alberta Blue Cross, at 780-498-8283 or shislop@ab.bluecross.ca.
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This media release was shared as a news story on
- My Grande Prairie Now on Alberta Blue Cross Community Wellbeing grant returns after “overwhelming” success last year
- Red Deer News Now on Alberta Blue Cross taking applications for 2025 Community Wellbeing grants
- Medicine Hat News (print edition) on Applications for Blue Cross community grants open to April 30
- Spruce Grove Examiner (print edition) on Community Wellbeing grant program returns
- Red Deer Advocate on Alberta Blue Cross announces return of Community Wellbeing grant program
