In honour of our 25th anniversary, Réseau Compassion Network was inspired to invest $250,000 into our communities… four times over, for a total contribution of $1 million into health and social services in Manitoba.
“The funds represent where we’re at as an organization and the things that are important to us,” shares Daniel Lussier, CEO of Réseau Compassion Network. “Our organizations and partners have great ideas, they always want to do better, and most of all, they want to be with people in community. If we can support those goals, I think that’s a beautiful way to mark our anniversary.”
These one-time investments into our agencies, our network and our province are designed to celebrate the spirit of innovation, love and compassion instilled in us by the women religious who have entrusted us with their mission. Read on below to find out more about what these funds will do:
Support for our Network Organizations
The first fund will support one or two pilot project ideas that help close the gaps for people facing barriers related to complex poverty. Our network agencies understand the importance of proving a concept before making a formal request to government for permanent or project funding. Many organizations already have innovative ideas that simply need a capital investment or some extra support to bring them to life. We look forward to helping those ideas make a difference in community.
Supporting Reconciliation Journeys
Our network organizations are each on a reconciliation journey; a path they are walking based on the needs of those they serve, their staff complement and the communities they work in. As they work towards learning, unlearning and finding different ways forward. We’ll work with our network organizations to better understand how we can help them continue on the road to reconciliation.
Support French-Language Services in Manitoba
In Manitoba, only 43% of designated bilingual positions in health and social services are filled with French-speaking staff. Especially in communities like St. Boniface, and in rural areas across the province, patients and clients are seeking care in one of the two official languages of their choice. With a $1 million grant received from the federal government, we’ve launched a five-year project called Vitalité santé!, which has brought together 14 partners in government, education and health to find creative solutions. The group is exploring ideas, options and solutions to barriers and are excited to be working together on this project that will truly impact our whole community. The $250,000 grant, which will be matched by another partner, will go toward this project to insure it grows and sustainability for the years to come.
Support Broader Community Projects
Our communities are full of organizations and people doing incredible work to support those who are facing barriers to full and happy lives. We believe strongly in being a catalyst in community; that our partners know their clientele and the solutions they need. We are eager to support a new and innovative project from a community partner that will change the lives of those it serves.