Let’s celebrate, honour and uplift First Nations Wellness this Winter!

Above: The Whispering Pines/Clinton Indian Band held a Wellness Fair to promote self-care, family wellness, and community connection. There were various workshops, group activities and resources available to those who came, such as art therapy. The event was supported by youth who played a meaningful role, helping with set-up, welcoming participants and encouraging peers to attend. ​

The winter season is an opportunity for us to focus on what nurtures our spirit during the winter months. Whether that be gathering with family, being on the land or nourishing our bodies with good food and medicines. We hope you take the time to participate in activities that bring you joy. With this in mind, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is excited to provide another year of Winter Wellness Grants to support community-led celebrations and events.

First Nations communities and First Nations-run health and social organizations that provide wellness services to First Nations people will be eligible for up to $3,000 to conduct their own Young Adults Winter Wellness Initiative. All communities, organizations or institutes must be based in BC.

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Here are some examples of community events that can inspire your Winter Wellness initiative:

• The Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band took youth and Band members out on the frozen lake for ice fishing (pictured above). They spent time together, ate food together and fished together. Youth interacted with Elders, helped set up the fishing rods and helped get the fire started.
• The Ooknakane Friendship Centre in Penticton held a successful walking program over six weeks. Each week, participants gathered to get exercise, connect with peers and increase their walking distance. Those who participated said they felt healthier and were surprised at how they felt the next day, saying they could feel their muscles getting stronger.
• The Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h' First Nations delivered potatoes, carrots, apples and oranges to Nation families. They also shared services, Elder information and their monthly newsletter. It was a good opportunity to help families with healthy food and to reconnect with members spread across Vancouver Island.
• The Yunesit'in Government organized an outdoor excursion to Mt. Timothy, where participants engaged in a variety of winter sports and activities. The trip provided an opportunity for youth to experience skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in a supportive and encouraging environment. The experience fostered physical wellness, mental well-being, and community connection, reminding us of the importance of creating opportunities for our urban members to come together, challenge themselves, and celebrate shared experiences. 

Below are some additional Winter Wellness Grant ideas:

• Healthy Eating: Canning workshops, traditional foods, plant harvesting, community feasts, food hampers, cooking classes, etc.
• Being Active: Canoeing, cultural games and activities, community relays, dancing, powwow, Zumba, yoga workshops, working on the land, walking and wellness challenges, etc.
• Nurturing Spirit: Making medicine bags, drums, moccasins, ribbon skirts, beading workshops, language workshops, Elders' teachings, drumming, harm reduction workshops, talent shows, wellness planning, etc.
• Respecting Tobacco: Tobacco and traditional medicines workshop, growing or harvesting traditional tobacco and other medicines, gifting tobacco, etc.
  

To determine your eligibility for this grant, please refer to “grant criteria" on page two of the online application. If you need guidance on wellness grant initiative ideas or want to confirm if your wellness initiative is within scope, email active@fnha.ca. 

How to Apply:

The deadline to apply is Friday, October 17, 2025, at 4 pm.

Here you can complete the online application form.

Please note that if you require more information and/or experience any challenges with the online application form, please send an email to active@​fnha.ca or phone (604) 785-6716.