GroupHEALTH’s Employee Giving Program provides GroupHEALTH employees with the opportunity to support a chosen local charity from both our Barrie, Ontario and South Surrey, B.C. offices. Every two years, in January, the Social Committee will consult with the Executive Leadership Team to publish a list of criteria for potential community sponsorships.
For the 2024/2025 season the South Surrey office has chosen the Cloverdale Community Kitchen, and the Barrie office has chosen the Glowing Hearts Charity. This allows our employees to participate in fundraisers, volunteer opportunities, and local events to support each charity. Find out more details about each charity below.
Cloverdale Community Kitchen
The Cloverdale Community Kitchen began in 2011 when the City of Surrey and the RCMP approached Pacific Community Church and asked if they would provide meals for the local unhoused population. Currently they serve 45,000 hot nutritious meals through their dinner program and help over 800 people with food and toys annually through their Christmas Hamper Program. They also provide an emergency weather shelter, provided clothing through their clothing cupboard, and support those finding housing and getting back into the workforce.
Learn more about the Cloverdale Community Kitchen on their website here.
Glowing Hearts Charity
Glowing Hearts was founded by Frank Nelson, who in 2013 was diagnosed as terminally ill with cancer and began a bucket list journey. This bucket list consisted of initiatives to help others in need, and the concept revolved around the idea ‘Give what you can and get what you need.’ What started as a simple concept has evolved into a thriving organization that supports children and youth in need across Simcoe County. Enabling children & youth who are vulnerable to poverty, access to resources and opportunities that support their growth, confidence, and self-determination, and to ultimately realize their full potential.
Learn more about Glowing Hearts on their website here.