We know that Healthy Communities don’t just happen… they are built by caring people who want to make a difference. That’s why Peace Arch Hospital Foundation (PAHF) supports local programs and initiatives to assist in creating the healthiest community possible, such as Ocean Athletics Track & Field Club.

Through our Healthy Community Grant program, Peace Arch Hospital is proud to contribute $50,000 towards Ocean Athletics’ Race 2 Resurface campaign. This campaign is part of a larger effort to breathe new life into the South Surrey track, located at 14600 20 Ave., which was first installed in 2005.

On Friday, August 28, Ocean Athletics, supporters and community members gathered safely for a presentation of the first cheque – $50,000 from Peace Arch Hospital Foundation – towards the goal of raising $480,000 in the community. The City of Surrey committed an additional $100,000.

Used by multiple groups and individuals over the years, the South Surrey track is showing signs of wear and is reaching a point where, if not addressed soon, could lead to great costs down the line.  According to Ocean Athletics head coach Maureen De St. Croix, the track “is eight years beyond its best-before date.”

The South Surrey track is known and loved by many individuals, families, schools and community groups. By providing funding towards this project, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation is helping to build a better tomorrow for all. A re-surfaced track will provide our entire community with a safe place to engage in physical activities, socialize with others, and Move for Life. And when more people are able to stay safe and active, they will require fewer visits to the hospital.

“With a focus on helping the White Rock and South Surrey community be the healthiest possible, we are pleased to support this project for Ocean Athletics,” said Stephanie Beck, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s Executive Director. “Physical activity of any kind is important for optimum health and wellness and the Foundation is committed to ensuring our community has the resources for people to be active.”

This innovative and upstream approach to healthcare was first initiated by the Foundation in 1999 when the Healthy Community Grants Program was created to support PAHF’s mission to raise awareness and enhance the overall health and wellness of our community. Community grants of this kind are multi-year, big-picture projects that assist in shaping the “healthiest community possible”. This grant values innovation, collaboration, and out-of-the-box thinking.

For more information about our grant programs or current projects, please contact Amy Westen at 604.535.4520 or via email to amywesten@pahfoundation.ca