From food security to cultural connection, Social Determinants of Health Funding can support communities invest in health and wellbeing
When people think about health care, they often think about walking or driving to a medical clinic to see their doctor or community health nurse.
And while that’s an important part of staying healthy, good health begins much closer to home.
It begins with reliable access to food. It grows through connections to culture, language and community. It becomes stronger when people feel safe, supported and connected to their lands and waters.
That’s the idea behind the Social Determinants of Health Funding provided by FNHA in partnership with the governments of Canada and British Columbia. The funding gives First Nations flexible, long-term support to invest in what they know will make the biggest difference for their communities, and in ways that reflect local priorities, strengths and traditions.
Growing food, growing wellbeing
Community gardens, greenhouses and partnerships with local farms are helping families access healthy food closer to home while reducing reliance on food brought in from outside community. Food-sharing programs, food hampers and other community supports help people access nutritious food when they need it most.
The benefits go beyond what gets served on a plate.
Food projects bring people together, create opportunities to learn from one another and strengthen community ties. By improving access to healthy food, communities are supporting physical health while also building stronger connections and a greater sense of wellbeing.
Strengthening culture to strengthen health
Culture and language are deeply connected to wellness.
Communities have used Social Determinants of Health Funding to expand traditional healing and wellness programs, host language and culture camps and support activities that connect youth and Elders through land-based learning.
Programs such as fish camps, traditional medicine gatherings and language classes provide opportunities for learning, storytelling and cultural renewal. They help strengthen identity, belonging and ties between generations while passing traditional knowledge to younger people.
Many communities have also improved access to First Nations healers and knowledge holders, creating additional paths to healing that are grounded in culture and tradition.
These initiatives recognize that wellness is about more than treating illness. It is also about fostering connection, purpose and cultural strength.
Community-led initiatives
Communities know best what they have and what they need. This funding is intended to support community-led projects that help create healthier conditions for people and families.
Some Nations have used the funding to improve medical transportation; others have expanded wellness programs, helped people find stable housing or invested in services that improve quality of life.
Social determinants of health are the everyday factors that shape wellbeing, from food and housing to cultural connection, education and access to services.
When communities have the flexibility to lead and the resources to act on their priorities, the benefits extend far beyond any single program, helping to create stronger, healthier and more connected communities for everyone.
Resources
The 10-Year Strategy on the Social Determinants of Health: Frequently Asked Questions
The 10-Year Strategy on the Social Determinants of Health: Implementation Plan
