Veterans Affairs Canada is committed to enhancing the well-being of veterans and their families through the Veterans and Family Well-being Fund.
OTTAWA, ONMarch 11, 2022 /CNW/ – The Honorable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defense, has revealed that three Nova Scotia-based organizations will benefit from financial support under the Veteran and family Well-Being Fund (FBEVF).
Joined by Kody Blois,MP for Kings–Hants,the Minister shared that VAC is allocating $75,000 to the Veteran Farm Project Society. This initiative offers female veterans a supportive post-service environment where they can engage in activities like farming, tending to memorial flower gardens, creative arts, and archery.
The free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association has been granted $90,000 to launch an 18-month program designed to enhance resilience among female veterans through equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions.
Additionally, the Nova Seven Arts Council, a hub for community art, will receive $10,000 to provide a free, accessible program introducing expressive art therapy to medically released military personnel, their families, and veterans. This initiative highlights art as a therapeutic and expressive medium for the military and veteran community.
This year, FBEVF-funded organizations are focusing on addressing challenges faced by veterans and their families in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. These include homelessness, retraining, unemployment, health concerns, and support for equity-seeking groups such as female veterans and LGBTQ2 veterans. This effort is bolstered by additional funding allocated in the 2021 federal budget.
Established in 2018, the FBEVF has been instrumental in funding private, public, and academic organizations dedicated to improving the lives of veterans and their families through innovative projects, research, and initiatives.
Quotes
“Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging for many.These organizations are pioneering unique approaches to support veterans through programs like equine therapy, agriculture, and the arts. Their efforts are commendable, and I am eager to see the positive impact this funding will have on veterans.”
The Honorable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of veterans affairs and Associate Minister of National Defense
“Canadian veterans have served our nation with pride, and it is our duty to honor their service by providing the support they need. organizations like the Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association and the Veteran Farm Project Society are vital in this mission, thanks to the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund. I am pleased to see their contributions making a difference.”
L’honorable Kody Blois, MP for Kings–Hants
“The SPIRIT program, made possible by the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund, will foster intergenerational connections among veterans. This initiative aims to support female veterans and those identifying with the 2SLGBTQ+ community by creating a safe space through equine-assisted wellness, option therapies, and community-building activities. We believe that strong relationships and a sense of belonging are key to thriving.”
Alissa Cue, owner/operator of Rohan Wood Stables, equine specialist and chief instructor for Free Spirit
“We are proud to offer a safe haven for women transitioning from military service. This funding allows us to continue delivering impactful programs. The women we support don’t just grow vegetables and flowers—they cultivate new skills, friendships, and personal growth every day.”
Jessica Miller, Founder and Director, Veteran Farm Project society
“Art has the power to transform perspectives. At 7Arts, we’ve built a creative community where individuals can explore their artistic potential. With the support of the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund, we hope this program becomes a positive outlet for service members, enhancing their mental well-being through creativity.”
Amber Juby, founding president of the NOVA Seven Arts Council
Key Highlights
- Following the 2021 budget, the Veterans and Family Well-Being Fund, initially introduced in 2017, will allocate a minimum of $8 million annually through 2023-2024.These funds aim to address post-pandemic challenges such as homelessness, retraining, unemployment, and health issues, while also supporting female and LGBTQ2 veterans.
- since its inception in 2018, the FBEVF has distributed over $25 million to 66 organizations nationwide, considerably improving the lives of veterans and their families.
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SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada
for further facts: Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468, [email protected]; John Embury, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, [email protected]; Alissa Cue, Owner/Operator of Rohan Wood Stables, Equine Specialist and Chief Instructor for Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association, 902-692-1614, [email protected]
Sacrifice by ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive in civilian life. The Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund is a testament to our commitment to their well-being, and I am proud to see these Nova Scotia-based organizations leading the way with innovative programs that address the unique challenges faced by veterans and their families.”
Kody Blois,MP for Kings—Hants
A Closer Look at the Funded Initiatives
The Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund (FBEVF) continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of veterans and their families by supporting innovative programs that address critical issues. Here’s a breakdown of the three Nova Scotia-based organizations receiving funding and the impact their initiatives are expected to have:
- Veteran Farm Project Society ($75,000)
This initiative provides female veterans with a nurturing environment to reconnect with themselves and their communities. Through activities like farming, tending to memorial flower gardens, creative arts, and archery, participants can find solace, purpose, and camaraderie. The program not only fosters mental and emotional well-being but also equips veterans with practical skills that can aid in their transition to civilian life.
- Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association ($90,000)
Equine-assisted psychotherapy has gained recognition for its ability to promote emotional healing and resilience. This 18-month program will offer female veterans the prospect to engage with horses in a therapeutic setting, helping them process trauma, build confidence, and develop coping mechanisms. The unique bond between humans and horses can be a powerful tool in addressing the psychological challenges many veterans face.
- Nova seven Arts Council ($10,000)
Art has long been recognized as a powerful medium for self-expression and healing. This program will introduce expressive art therapy to medically released military personnel, their families, and veterans, providing a creative outlet to process emotions and experiences. By making the program free and accessible, the Nova Seven Arts Council ensures that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from benefiting from this therapeutic approach.
Addressing post-Pandemic Challenges
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated many of the challenges faced by veterans and their families, including homelessness, unemployment, and mental health struggles. The FBEVF-funded initiatives are specifically designed to address these issues, with a particular focus on equity-seeking groups such as female veterans and LGBTQ2 veterans. By providing targeted support, these programs aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all veterans.
The Broader Impact of the FBEVF
Since its establishment in 2018, the Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund has been a cornerstone of Veterans Affairs Canada’s efforts to improve the lives of veterans and their families. by funding innovative projects, research, and initiatives, the FBEVF has enabled organizations across the country to develop creative solutions to the challenges faced by the veteran community.
The additional funding allocated in the 2021 federal budget underscores the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring that veterans receive the support they deserve. As these programs continue to evolve, they serve as a reminder of the importance of collaboration between government, private organizations, and the community in supporting those who have served our nation.
Final Thoughts
The Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund represents a proactive and compassionate approach to addressing the needs of veterans and their families. By supporting initiatives that focus on mental health, skill-building, and community engagement, the FBEVF is helping to create a brighter future for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
As we reflect on the impact of these programs, it is indeed clear that the well-being of veterans is not just a obligation but a privilege.The efforts of organizations like the Veteran Farm Project Society, Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association, and Nova Seven Arts Council are a testament to the power of innovation and compassion in making a difference.
Let us continue to honor our veterans by supporting initiatives that empower them to thrive in civilian life and by recognizing the invaluable contributions they have made to our nation.
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This article was crafted with the professionalism and insight of a seasoned sports moderator, adapted to highlight the importance of supporting veterans and their families through innovative and impactful programs.
