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 Semiahmoo Arts Society’s new initiative – Therapeutic Arts for Elders.

Semiahmoo Arts Society (SAS) began in 1969 as an arts advocacy organization run by volunteers for White Rock and South Surrey. Their motto is “arts for everyone,” because art brings connection to all, whether you consider yourself an artist or not.

In January 2024, SAS extended their message and created a new Arts Sandbox initiative, Therapeutic Arts for Elders. In this program, travelling arts instructors visit long-term care residents to offer free, two-hour art sessions at Peace Arch Hospital’s Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion and Weatherby Pavilion Long Term Care. As statistics show that many elders suffer from mental health issues, SAS created this program to provide an escape from that emotional stress.

“We are so pleased to support Semiahmoo Arts Society’s Therapeutic Arts for Elders initiative,” says Stephanie Beck, CEO of Peace Arch Hospital Foundation. “The Foundation has always been passionate about enhancing the health and wellness in our community, and this innovative program brings us one step closer to our goal.”

The program has proven to be quite impactful, with many residents showing increased confidence, sense-of-purpose, and overall health and wellness. A family member of a resident expressed her elation for this program, noting how her mom is becoming more creative and can’t wait for the classes. As of December 2024, PAHF is proud to continue supporting this program with a $300,000 Healthy Community Grant for an additional three years.

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.