WCK exists to deliver timely, practical support to respond to the needs of BC kids and their families, easing their way as they navigate childhood cancer and blood disorders.

West Coast Kids Cancer Foundation was established in 2017 to challenge the status quo of support offered to families navigating childhood cancer in BC. Our mission is to provide timely, practical support that responds to the needs of families as they face childhood cancer and blood disorders.

WCK was founded for one simple reason. We believe families navigating childhood cancer and blood disorders need more support. In a 2016 review of charities supporting families experiencing childhood cancer, findings revealed that 75% more privately donated funds are spent on support programs for kids and families in Alberta than in BC. This information fueled further research and discussion with families and pediatric oncology professionals here in BC and led to the launch of our first programs in 2019. We continue to consult at every stage with families in our program creation and delivery models.


OUR PROGRAMS:

WCK HANGOUTS: WCK is connected virtually with our kids to have lots of fun, stay wild, and give parents a tiny break while they try to work from home. This program connects kids 1 on 1 with their favourite WCK volunteer to create camp-style fun in a safe online space. Each week is a new adventure with art, games, singing, dancing, and photography! Not only is each Hangout unique and engaging, but it also reduces isolation and builds essential connections.

FOOD IN THE FREEZER: Every week we're at BC Children's Hospital (BCCH), stocking the freezer on the oncology floor with a selection of yummy, nutritious, easy-to-heat frozen meals from Pace Processing and Spice It Up foods. Right now, family members and take out delivery services are limited in the hospital as an infection control measure. Filling the freezer at BCCH helps keep families nourished while they stay near their sick child.

HEALTHY SNACKS: We're delivering healthy snacks to BCCH so parents can grab a quick bite to eat during long days at the clinic. Sometimes one appointments turns into multiple and parents can go all day without food. The snacks are out and available at all times for easy access allowing parents to stay close by their kids without having to leave for food.

NOURISH AT HOME: Transitioning back home after weeks or months of an inpatient stay at the hospital can be really stressful. WCK is piloting a program to safely deliver fully prepared meals to families door so they can focus on their child's care.

BIG DREAMS:
Our big dream is to develop a wilderness Camp, one that is fully-accessible, available year-round, and adapted specifically for kids living with or beyond cancer and their families. The property under consideration is 36 hectares of beautiful lakefront land on Stave Lake, near Mission BC. WCK Camp will become a place where children and families can find healing, connection and growth in a pristine, natural environment.

This is only the beginning, We are on a mission for MORE. More support for kids with cancer and their families in BC.
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