Sun Life has announced the expansion of its partnership with Spirit North, a charitable organization dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth through physical activities rooted in their cultural heritage.
The commitment, which includes $1 million in funding over three years, addresses health inequities in underserved Indigenous communities in Manitoba and the Yukon territory, according to a news release from the insurer.
“Indigenous youth are 25 times more likely to be diagnosed with type two diabetes than non-Indigenous youth,” said Sun Life Heath president Dave Jones. “By expanding access to physical activities, we’re helping Indigenous youth get active and make health a priority. We hope our partnership will make a real difference for those who may not have access to important community programs.”
Sun Life first partnered with Spirit North in 2021, supporting the organization's mission to provide Indigenous youth and children with physical activity and land-based programs based on their cultures and traditions. These activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, canoeing, and shelter-building.
The insurer said it has reached over 1,500 Indigenous youth through the partnership, with 89% of participants meeting or exceeding the recommended daily amount of physical activity.
Parents also reported significant improvements in their child’s joy and overall wellness since participating in the activities, according to Sun Life.
The funding provided through the extended partnership will bring Spirit North’s programs to 10 communities in Manitoba and four communities in Yukon.
“We are incredibly grateful for this support from Sun Life and the meaningful impact that it will have on our programs and ability to reach and engage Indigenous children and youth across the country,” said Beckie Scott, founder and CEO of Spirit North.
“Together with Sun Life, we will ensure some of Canada’s most vulnerable and marginalized youth have access to high-quality sport and play programs with proven health and wellness outcomes. It is truly a ‘win-win’, and we couldn't be more happy or proud to be embarking on this important journey together.”
In related news, Sun Life recently announced that it will be a title sponsor for the Courses Thématiques Sun Life race series over the next three years as part of its commitment to improving the health and well-being of Quebec communities.
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