SRCHN News

UPDATE ON THE SRCHN EFFORTS TO ESTABLISH THE SOOKE GATHERING PLACE

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:39:50 GMT

SUMMER 2025

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

SRCHN is fundraising to build an independent Seniors Centre that will include intergenerational programs and space for community and other organizations to rent.

SRCHN originally envisioned a project that included 75 subsidized rental apartments for seniors with an integrated seniors’ drop-in centre to be built on Wadams Way’s Lot A, which is owned by the District of Sooke. BC Housing was to provide the funding for the housing part of the project as well as provide a contribution to partially fund the seniors’ centre portion of the project. Unfortunately, prior to project approval BC Housing changed the project funding rules. This meant the seniors’ centre portion would cost an estimated $5.1 million. The SRCHN Board realized raising that amount of money for the seniors’ centre was not realistic.

SRCHN presented the District of Sooke with a more cost-effective option for the seniors’ centre to be built on Lot A. We proposed a stand-alone single story seniors’ centre with a threshold target for fundraising at $2 million. We requested that Sooke council approve in principle the construction of a Seniors Drop-In Centre as a stand-alone building on Lot A. Having land on which to build the centre is a critical component of our fund-raising strategy.

The Project History

Since 2010, SRCHN has been working with the District of Sooke (District) to establish a seniors’ centre with intergenerational programming in the Sooke Core, the overall goal being to assist seniors to age in place with dignity and to have a good quality of life. Research from the University of Manitoba indicates there are significant health benefits associated with seniors participating in such a centre.

In 2017, the District’s Community “Charette” identified the need for a Seniors’ Drop-In Center, with youth programs and affordable housing on the northeast quadrant of Lot A in the heart of Sooke. The District issued a Request for Information to develop Lot A consistent with the community Charette.

No developer came forward and SRCHN then agreed to take on both the housing and drop-in Centre portions.
The initial plan for the Sooke Gathering Place was to build up to 75 independent living apartments for those age 55 plus and embed a 5,000 sq. ft Seniors/Activity Centre, open to the whole community, within the housing complex. The Centre would include space for seniors’ programming, community meals, intergenerational programming, and community rental space.
SRCHN engaged Wiser Projects and together we developed architectural drawings and made submissions for, and obtained, CMHC start up, to help plan and design the SGP.

In July of 2020 SRCHN submitted a grant proposal to Invest in Canada Infrastructure Grant – we did not receive the funding due to over subscription.

The District of Sooke also provided significant funds to assist SRCHN in their application to the 2021 BC Housing call.
SRCHN also began its community fundraising efforts for the seniors/Activity Centre portion of the build. A threshold amount of $2,000,000 was the target.
The 2021 BC Housing call approved only 200 units province wide. While SRCHN was not a successful applicant, BC Housing advised SRCHN to continue its efforts for a next BC Housing call.

Prior to the 2023 call, BC Housing Policy changed, mandating that amenity space must be for the exclusive use of BC Housing residents. As a result, BC Housing would require SRCHN to fund shared building costs, paying a portion all communal space (elevator, entrance ways, service areas, roof, landscaping and servicing, etc.)

The BC Housing-required Quantity Survey estimated that the Activity Centre alone, integrated into the housing, would cost $5,105,200, or $567/sq ft., with professional fees and leasehold improvements not included in the estimate.

SRCHN’s Board of Directors decided that the quantity survey estimate of more than $5 million for the Activity Centre alone was not realistic, from the perspective of community fundraising nor the prudent management of financial resources. That Sooke was not considered a priority community for the 2023 BC Housing Call was a further factor in our decision-making.

In 2024, SRCHN continued to fundraise for the Sooke Gathering Place and explore options with provincial MLAs, the District and other funders, pending the 2024 election, provincial budget processes and further BC housing calls.

SRCHN remains committed to advocating for affordable seniors housing in the Sooke Region. However, SRCHN’s Board of Directors has decided to revert to our earlier plan which is to build the seniors/Activity centre (the Sooke Gathering Place,) independent of a housing component. Our community fundraising continues while we wait for the District of Sooke decision regarding the land on Lot A.

In Memoriam

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 16:00:01 GMT

Remembering Dr. Roy Irwin Brown

The Board of Directors sadly announces the passing of Dr Roy Irwin Brown. Dr. Brown was a long-time member of SRCHN’s Board of Directors and Chair of the Age Friendly Committee.

Throughout his career many honours and awards were bestowed upon this eloquent communicator, including an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ghent, for his distinguished scientific research in disability studies, the Dr. Robert E. Cooke Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry and the IASSIDD Distinguished Service Citation. He was passionate about improving services for those with physical or mental challenges and their families.

Roy was a man of immense integrity and thoughtful conviction. He lived not for recognition or applause, but for purpose. His sense of duty to his community was matched only by his humility, and those fortunate enough to work alongside him knew him as a steady and compassionate voice of reason.

Roy's passing will leave an immense gap in the lives of so many people who respected and indeed loved him for the way he reached out, embraced people and enriched their lives.

Sooke Selected for BC Builds is Good News for New Community Health Centre

Sat, 04 May 2024 17:56:58 GMT

Update on the Sooke Region Community Health

and Urgent and Primary Care Centre (CHC-UPCC)

On April 29, 2024, the Government of BC announced the next phase of the BC Builds program. Lot A on

Wadams Way in Sooke is one of the sites chosen and is the intended location for the Sooke Region CHC-UPCC.

For the news release, see https://news.bchousing.org/bc-builds-adds-more-sites-to-fast-track-housing-for-

people-with-middle-incomes/

As Maja Tait, mayor of Sooke, stated :

"This marks another milestone in our journey toward realizing an integrated health centre for Sooke, where

homes and essential services converge to meet the needs of our growing community. Together, we're forging

a path toward a stronger, more inclusive future, ensuring vital services are within reach, right here at home."

An information session will be held on May 9, 2024 at 10:30 am for interested developers. The BC Builds

initial submissions are due July 25, 2024. Further information, including the property notice opportunity can

be found at https://www.bcbuildshomes.ca/developers and then search the Sooke location.

An important step towards the Sooke Region CHC-UPCC!

Rotary Club of Sooke Strikes Again!

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 17:20:40 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Photo left to right: Mary Dunn, Vice President & Marlene Barry Sooke, member of the Fundraising Committee of the Region Communities Health Network accepting the cheque from Roger Temple, Community Service Chair and Deena Fiddler, President of the Rotary Club of Sooke. Photo by Linda Ferguson

The Rotary Club of Sooke Donates a Second $8,000 Cheque Towards the Gathering Place

After the first donation we threw out the challenge to the community of Sooke to raise another $8000 and we would match it. And in the way of the generous community of Sooke, they did!

The Rotary Club of Sooke sees the need for our seniors to have a centre where they can gather, visit, explore and share. Our elders are a vital resource to our community. They have contributed so much and our club believes that Sooke is long overdue in establishing this place of gathering.

We encourage everyone to visit the website, become familiar with what the goal is and, if you can, donate to help make this happen. https://www.sookeregionchn.org/sg

Sooke accelerates plans for state-of-the-art integrated health-care centre

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:03:28 GMT

Plans for the new integrated health-care centre in Sooke are gathering momentum, says Sooke Mayor Maja Tait.

Sooke council directed staff to hire a consultant last week to assist with the competitive solicitation process for the design, build and financing of the project, which will have all medical services under one roof.

“We need to pull it out of the ground,” Tait said. “We felt it was important to make that decision to get it out there in the public to keep the ball rolling and build momentum.”

While the provincial health ministry has committed to covering the lease and implementation of staff, it is not funding the construction cost.

“The aim is to find a developer who can work with us to make the building cost neutral, so cost recovery can come from other floors,” Tait explained. That may include commercial office space and affordable housing.

The integrated health centre, which has been talked about for more than a decade, took a major step forward with the appointment of a steering committee by the District of Sooke last November that consists of representatives from Sooke council and three members of the Sooke Region Community Health Network (SRCHN). Their mandate is to research and develop options for a community health centre on land near the Sooke library on Wadams Way as lot A.

SRCHN will be the community’s governing body for the new facility, which will include a community health centre and urgent care centre.

“This centre is really needed in Sooke,” said Annemieke Holthuis, who took over as president of SRCHN last June. “SRCHN has recognized that need for a decade.”

The steering committee meets monthly with the Ministry of Health and Island Health, and also weekly with Island Health.

The current plan is based on one drafted in 2022 that involves the transfer of existing personnel and resources from West Coast Family Medical in Evergreen Centre to the new facility.

Holthuis said a number of important steps are progressing, including work on the service delivery plan and preparing the request for proposal for development.

Juan de Fuca MLA Ravi Parmar stressed that getting the centre up and running is a top priority, as underlined by former MLA John Horgan’s announcement last year to provide $6 million to equip the facility.

”We need to get builders in the community involved and find a solution,” Parmar said. “My focus is to get this up and running, and the ministry and I will help to move this along as quickly as possible. I’d like to see something by 2025. I don’t want to be talking about this in five years.”

Holthuis said the committee aims to have the service delivery model finalized in the next few months.

“That’s a key element of the RFP, which we hope will go out by late spring,” she said.

The Ministry and Island Health have been “very” supportive, said Holthuis, who has an extensive background with non-profit organizations, and managed a similar integrated health care facility in Ontario.

Part of the discussions with the ministry is about establishing staffing numbers based on Stats Canada data, which Holthuis noted is always a couple of years behind.

“We want to ensure that what’s built has sufficient staff and space to deal with the community’s growing population,” Holthuis explained. “Once those stages are completed, we’ll be in a much better position to speak to the cost.

“We’ve also asked for additional personnel to meet with the growing mental health needs in Sooke and for more family doctors and and nurse practitioners with a focus on team-based care,” she said. “We want to ensure that what’s built has sufficient staff and space to deal with the community’s growing population anticipated between 2025 and 2030.”

Holthuis said discussion with potential partners about locating other services such as diagnostic imaging and laboratory services are ongoing.

There is currently only one other similar integrated care centre in the province. Two more are planned, including the one in Sooke.

SRCHN president Annemieke Holthuis says the integrated health centre planned for Sooke is moving toward issuing requests for proposal by late spring. (Contributed)

Sooke Region’s mental health services critically insufficient

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:43:42 GMT

Sooke Region Communities Health Network calls for urgent government action

A recent report by the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) has shed light on the critical inadequacy of mental health and addiction services in the Sooke Region.

Despite the best efforts of local providers, the report highlights a critical need for significant improvements to essential services. This has a particularly negative impact on the youth and seniors within the community.

According to the report’s author, Hermione Jefferis, both young people and seniors are experiencing disproportionately higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to other age groups.

Jefferis emphasized the pressing need for services tailored specifically to address these demographics’ unique mental health needs during a presentation to Sooke council.

READ: Mental Health Substance Use and Addictions Report

Data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information revealed that nearly one in five Canadians face mental health illness each year. However, many individuals encounter prolonged waiting periods to access the care they require, while others are left without any care or receive inadequate support.

The SRCHN report highlights significantly elevated occurrences of depression, mood disorders, and anxiety within the Sooke Region when compared to the rest of British Columbia.

The report provides recommendations encompassing a spectrum of services, including psychiatric emergency care, medical detoxification, in-patient treatment facilities, peer-to-peer support programs, and access to safe supplies, to address these concerning findings.

Christine Bossi, the executive director at SRCHN and an advisor on the report, emphasized the immediate need for increased funding and support from the provincial and federal governments.

Bossi added that despite the rising inflation and escalating needs, funding levels have stagnated since the pre-COVID era. Consequently, several non-profit organizations offering vital mental health and addiction services have been forced to shutter programs due to financial constraints.

Signs suggest the provincial government may consider an upsurge in mental health funding.

Langford-Juan de Fuca MLA Ravi Parmar referred to recent provincial government commitments, including a promise of $1 billion towards expanding treatment options and establishing specialized youth-focused “foundry centres.” These centers are intended to provide accessible walk-in counselling services, primary healthcare referrals, and specialized substance abuse services.

“I agree there is a need to provide those types of support for youth and people of all ages, as well as supply direct supports to people who are facing homlessness,” Parmar said during an interview.

Scheduled to meet with Mental Health and Addictions Minister Jennifer Whiteside in December, Parmar intends to address mental health concerns within the Sooke Region specifically.

Following the report’s release, SRCHN will advocate for the report’s recommendations to officials at all levels of government, raising awareness about the existing barriers and urging swift action. SRCHN is forming a regional mental health committee to address and discuss these critical issues.

Bossi highlighted the urgency for immediate solutions while suggesting interim options such as the Sooke Family Resources Society, Pacific Centre for Family Services, and private counsellors to cater to pressing needs.

“It’s a very big nut to crack,” she said. “Unfortunately, (the mental health problem) is just getting worse.”

Fundraisers rally support for the Gathering Place

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 20:25:49 GMT

Sooke Rotary president John Topolniski, left, Rotary president-elect Deena Fiddler, Sooke Rotary secretary Jeanette Wilford, SRCHN board member Carol Pinalski, Roger Temple, chair of Sooke Rotary community service committee, SRCHN board vice-president Annemieke Holthuis, and SRCHN board president Mary Dunn with the $8,000 donation from Rotary for The Gathering Place. (File -Sooke News Mirror)

Organizations and businesses are stepping up efforts to raise more funds for the Sooke Gathering Place.

“The number of fundraising initiatives speaks to the community’s determination to support the project,” said Mary Dunn, vice-president of the Sooke Region Community Heath Network (SRCHN), the driving force behind the project.

The Gathering Place will provide a place for people to live in Sooke independently, and with vitality, Dunn said.Plans call for a multi-use building with affordable housing for those 55 and older, 5,000 square feet of community space including a commercial kitchen, and rooms organizations or community members can rent for meetings or activities.

The space would also include an elders drop-in centre with inter-generational programs to foster relationships between youth and elders.

The Sooke Harbour Players is donating all the profits from The Big Bluff and other Tiny Triumphs Show to the Gathering Place. The fundraiser will serve up a blend of comedy, cabaret, nightlife experience, and after party featuring an eclectic mix of local and professional artists, performers and musicians.

The event is at Sooke Community Hall on Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at youcantstopsilly.com , or at Forbes Pharmacy, The Stick Roastoreum, Cafe Vosino, Pharmasave, The Castle, Sooke Arts Gallery, Shirley Delicious, and East Sooke General Store.

Proceeds from the Sooke Arts Council’s Plein Air event’s art sales will go to the Sooke Gathering Place. The blind auction art sales event runs until Nov. 12, with information at Sooke Arts Council’s Facebook page.

Phoebe Dunbar and Linda Teneycke are donating proceeds from Wood Art at the Craft Fair ande Artisans Market on Nov. 11 and 12 at Sooke Community Hall.

My Place Family Salon owner Barb Dias is donating $3 from every haircut in November and December.

“I want to challenge everyone in the personal care industry to do the same,” Dias said.

Marlene Barry, owner of Reflexology 4 You, is donating $4 from every session in November and December as well.

Sooke Rotary is challenging local businesses and organizations to match the $8,000 donation it made in June.

ALSO READ: Sooke Arts Council gives boost to Gathering Place fundraising

SRCHN has decided to delay submitting their funding proposal to B.C. Housing until November. This decision was made following the announcement that Sooke is not one of the 10 communities in B.C. that will receive top priority at this time.

“We are working hard to get ourselves aligned for the next (funding) call,” Dunn said

The total raised for the Sooke Gathering Place to date is $140,000.

Summer 2023 Newsletter

sherry@sdrobb.com (Sherry Robb) — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 19:17:10 GMT

NEW WAYS TO HELP BUILD SOOKE GATHERING PLACE

PLEDGE TO BUILD

SOOKE GATHERING PLACE

Pledging means you commit to donate funds once a build date has been set. It's a promise to help later that we can take to the bank now.

Please note that your pledge will be restricted to this purpose only and that you will be contacted when a date has been determined and your pledge becomes due.

FINANCIAL PLANNING OPTIONS

There is still time to receive maximum tax breaks with your financial donations to SRCHN. You can specify which of our program areas you wish your donation to be directed or let us direct it to the area of greatest need.

WAYS TO DONATE

One-Time Donation
Annual Giving or Monthly Giving
Tribute Donations (in memory or in honor of someone)
Gifts of Securities and Life Insurance
Wills and Estates

All donations to SRCHN qualify for a charitable tax receipt. Our charitable registration number is 859185803 Rr0001

Please make cheques payable to

Sooke Region Communities Health Network

PO Box 642 Sooke BC, V9Z 1H6

E-transfer ed@sookeregionchn.org and comment “donate to SRCHN”. Donate online at SookeRegionCHN.org

Gifts of publicly listed securities, such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds, can be made through the Victoria Foundation.

Visit SookeRegionCHN.org/donation-options and download the Victoria Foundation form. You may need your broker’s assistance to complete this form. For more information call the Victoria Foundation at 250.381.5532.

Ongoing Bottle Drive for SRCHN

Every bit counts - even your returnables! And when it seems that everyone has bottle drives on any given weekend, SRCHN has one every day of the week! Simply drop yours off to the Sooke Return-It Depot on Idlemore and specify SRCHN or Sooke Gathering Place to make sure your refund goes to our causes. We THANK YOU for your ongoing support!

VOLUNTEER WITH SRCHN!

Volunteers are the life blood of our organization - we could never achieve all that we do without the dedication and support of our caring community volunteers. If you love to make a difference and have some time to fill, volunteer with us. You'll make new friends and have a great time too!

Join Our SRCHN Resource Directory

Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) is updating the regional resources webpage and is seeking your input so we can provide the most precise and up to date information. This information will not only populate the Sooke Region resources page, but also (where relevant) supplement the "Help" brochure with support services, contribute to the Sooke Region navigation bureau and complete the Volunteer Centre portfolio for when potential volunteers approach us Kindly fill in the form below.

If you have any questions, please email us here

or call the SRCHN office: at 778-365-1878

Vote for a Spectacular Senior in Sooke

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 14:47:51 GMT

Above: Melanie Cunningham, left, Carol Pinalski, Myrtle Acton, Bev Lewis and June Williams will compete for the Sooke Region Spectacular Senior Award, a fundraiser for The Gathering Place. The winner of the competition will be announed at the All Sooke Day Community Picnic on Aug. 19. (Kevin Laird – Sooke News Mirror)

Unique event is a fundraiser for The Gathering Place

Five exceptional seniors have earned the opportunity to take part in a fundraising campaign for The Gathering Place.

The Gathering Place will serve as a senior drop-in center and multi-generational activity space, and is planned as part of the Sooke Region Community Health Network’s elders complex, located near the Sooke public library on Wadams Way.

The selection process for the Sooke Region Spectacular Senior Award began this summer, where family and friends nominated these deserving seniors, Melanie Cunningham, Myrtle Acton, Bev Lewis, June Williams, and Carol Pinalski, by making a $10 donation to The Gathering Place.

After the nominations, these five nominees were chosen to participate in the initiative. Now, Melanie Cunningham, Myrtle Acton, Bev Lewis, June Williams, and Carol Pinalski are encouraged to enlist as many friends and family members as possible to donate to The Gathering Place. The senior who raises the most money will be honoured with the title “Sooke’s Most Spectacular Senior” during the All Sooke Day Family Picnic on Aug. 19.

Roseanne Day, a resident of Sooke and a dedicated volunteer, created the creative fundraiser to engage the community in a fun way to raise money for the project. Day is seeking volunteers to assist with the fundraising event.

If you wish to contribute, donations can be made through Canada Helps. Choose “Sooke Elders Complex” from the drop-down box and provide the nominated person’s name at canadahelps.org.

The Gathering Place committee extends its gratitude to individuals, groups, and businesses that have already contributed to fundraising through craft sales, bake sales, teas, lunches, and other initiatives.

New Ways to Help Fund Sooke Gathering Place

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 14:25:49 GMT

PLEDGE YOUR PROMISE TO HELP LATER

Pledging means you commit to donate funds once a build date has been set. It's a promise to help later that we can take to the bank now.

Please note that your pledge will be restricted to this purpose only and that you will be contacted when a date has been determined and your pledge becomes due.

FINANCIAL PLANNING OPTIONS

Specify which of our program areas you wish your donation to be directed or let us direct it to the area of greatest need.

WAYS TO DONATE

One-Time Donation
Annual Giving or Monthly Giving
Tribute Donations (in memory or in honor of someone)
Gifts of Securities and Life Insurance
Wills and Estates

All donations to SRCHN qualify for a charitable tax receipt. Our charitable registration number is 859185803 Rr0001

Please make cheques payable to

Sooke Region Communities Health Network

PO Box 642 Sooke BC, V9Z 1H6

E-transfer ed@sookeregionchn.org and comment “donate to SRCHN”. Donate online at SookeRegionCHN.org

The Little Town That Could

sherry@sdrobb.com (Sherry Robb) — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 14:12:05 GMT

THE LITTLE TOWN THAT COULD

To all who live here, Sooke Region is widely known to be the unofficial Volunteer Capital of Canada. Ask anyone who wants to get stuff done - we are pretty good at rolling up our sleeves and getting to work. Helping each other is the hallmark of our community brand.

Just look at the proposed Sooke Gathering Place. Sooke lost its senior centre 13 years ago and for all this time has been one of the only communities in BC without a dedicated space to support this growing population. 30 per cent of Sooke is more than 55 years of age and that total is expected to double in the next 20 years. Soon a brand new seniors housing complex will be built and a proposal is in the works to include the Sooke Gathering Place, a senior and multigenerational activity centre, along with it. After a decade, the plans are thoughtfully drawn and ready to put into action. The only problem is, Sooke needs big funding to make the senior's centre part of the project happen. The District of Sooke has provided the land and has earmarked $257K in predevelopment work - but it's still a far cry from the $2M needed to build The Gathering Place.

This is where Sooke shines. A dedicated group of fundraisers at the Sooke Region Community Health Network (the umbrella organization overseeing the project) has inspired more than a dozen community initiatives, illustrating how the entire region is behind this critical initiative. Wherever there was a community gathering, there was a fundraising table manned by keen volunteers working hard to get the word out. In 2022 a Books for Boomers book sale raised $2,400. A baby boomer’s 60's and 70's benefit dance and raffle earned $2,600. The Mudslingers pottery makers donated 100% of their Christmas gift sale proceeds to help build Sooke Gathering Place while a holiday quilt raffle earned almost 5K! In mid February, the whole of Sooke took part in a community auction of donated art and services, raising over $8,500 in one day. Our local paper The Sooke News Mirror has pledged $4000 along with providing ongoing editorial to help the cause remain top of mind. And the work continues.

All of this can-do attitude is inherent in Sooke. The Sooke Gathering Place project has reached an important juncture in its fundraising phase and needs to reach the hearts of those with deeper pockets. Funds must be raised before the residential building is started otherwise the Sooke Gathering Place will not make it in time. Community grit and determination has earned over $100K so far, but two million is required to put shovels in the ground.

So with summer’s fair weather on the horizon, the people of Sooke Region take aim for the next round of fundraising while volunteers ready to roll up their sleeves. "The Little Town that Could" is determined to be "The Little Town That Did."

For more details on the proposed plans and how you can help, visit SookeGatheringPlace.ca

Please make cheques payable to:

Sooke Region Communities Health Network
PO Box 642 Sooke BC, V9Z 1H6

E-transfer ed@sookeregionchn.org and comment “donate to SRCHN”.

Gifts of publicly listed securities , such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds, can be made through the Victoria Foundation.

For other options and links visit sookeregionchn.org/donation-options

For more information contact

Mary Dunn, Vice President, Sooke Region Community Health Network

Phone: 250.646.2554

Email: Mary.Dunn@SookeRegionCHN.org

New integrated health-care centre coming to Sooke

sherry@sdrobb.com (Sherry Robb) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:13:12 GMT

People living in Sooke and the surrounding area will benefit from a new integrated health-care centre offering team-based services in the heart of Sooke village.

The new centre is the latest in a series of investments over the past six years to build capacity and improve health-care services for residents in Sooke.

“Improving access to health-care services for people in B.C. is a key priority for our government,” said John Horgan, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca. “This centre will be critical to meeting the health-care needs of people living in Sooke and surrounding areas, now and in the future, and I am proud that people in the region will soon benefit from being able to access the care they need, close to home.”

The new facility will combine the community health centre (CHC) and urgent- and primary-care centre (UPCC) at a future development planned for 6671 Wadams Way.

Once open, the CHC/UPCC centre will consolidate local primary-care services from West Coast Family Medical Clinic and other local community services into a single location, making it easier for people to access the health services they need. This will be done by better connecting more people to integrated health-care services in the community, such as primary care, culturally safe supports and mental-health and substance-use services.

“This new integrated health-care facility will connect people in the community to a range of health-care services, including primary care, urgent care and community health services all under one roof,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “Integrating physicians into a community-based primary-care model means more time for patients, more patients accessing health-care services and less administrative burden for practitioners. This is part of our continuing work to build increased and improved access to primary health care for people in Sooke.”

The team of clinical providers is expected to include family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, mental-health and substance-use workers and other allied health providers. The new staff will supplement the existing staff working at West Coast Family Medical Clinic.

The ministry is also providing funding to hire an Indigenous cultural safety liaison to support the project while planning is underway.

Over the past six years, government has made significant investments in building health-care service capacity to support growing demand and the high-use rate of health services in the Sooke region. Investments include increased mental-health counselling and home support services, $1 million in funding to further support team-based care and $600,000 in funding to expand and improve the West Coast Family Medical Clinic, and $10.5 million to establish the Western Communities Primary Care Network. These investments were made based on significant local engagement.

The new facility will be community-governed and operated by the Sooke Region Communities Health Network and is expected to join the provincial rostering system to ensure patient care continuity and attachment initiative announced in 2022 as part of the new payment model for family physicians.

Quick Facts:

The new centre will be part of the Western Communities Primary Care Network and provide extended hours for urgent and non-emergency health care and better same-day access to primary care to help meet community demand.
The team of clinical providers is expected to include family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, mental-health and substance-use workers and other allied health providers.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Province's primary health-care strategy, CLICK HERE

To learn more about the Province's health human resource strategy, CLICK HERE

What people are saying about the Sooke Region CHC/UPCC

Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions –

“People need access to high-quality mental health and addiction care close to home. With the opening of the new blended community health centre, and urgent and primary care centre, more people in Sooke and the surrounding area will now be able to connect to the local mental-health-and-addiction supports they need and deserve.”

Leah Hollins, board chair, Island Health

“We are delighted that the first-ever community health centre/urgent- and primary-care centre in the Island Health region will be owned and operated by the Sooke Region Communities Health Network. The Sooke CHC/UPCC will increase access to same-day, team-based primary care to residents of the Sooke region.”

Mary Dunn, president, Sooke Region Communities Health Network

“For many years, we have been collaborating with the District of Sooke, the South Island Division of Family Practice, the West Coast Family Medical Clinic and other local organizations to establish a community health centre in Sooke. We are excited to have the opportunity to expand community health services for everyone in the Sooke region.”

Dr. Anton Rabien, West Coast Family Medical Clinic

“Approval of the proposed community health centre/urgent primary care centre is fantastic news for Sooke! The proposed health centre will undoubtedly increase access to primary-care services for people living in Sooke and the surrounding communities. A big thanks to Mayor Maja Tait for initiating discussions between the District of Sooke, Island Health, the Sooke Region Communities Health Network, and the Sooke family physicians that ultimately led to the development of this proposal; to the volunteers of the Sooke Region Communities Health Network who did all the hard work in drafting the proposal; and to the Honourable John Horgan, who was willing to listen to our concerns and advocate on our behalf for improving the delivery of primary health services in Sooke.”

Dr. Randal Mason, board co-chair, South Island Division of Family Practice

“The Sooke Region CHC/UPCC is a great example of advocacy and collaboration between government and community organizations. The unique nature of a blended CHC/UPCC will provide access to urgent medical services, while focusing on longitudinal needs of individuals and the broader community. Community governance will allow the people of Sooke to develop, deliver and adapt services that reflect the needs of the community. The Sooke region CHC/UPCC will be a much-needed resource within our broader Western Communities Primary Care Network. The South Island Division of Family Practice is grateful for the opportunity to provide support and input in planning and development of the centre.”

Maja Tait, mayor of Sooke

“Today’s announcement is a culmination of the work of many people who remained steadfast to ensure the residents of Sooke have access to the health-care services they deserve. Thank you to all project partners, including the Province of British Columbia, Island Health, the Sooke Region Community Health Network, the Primary Health Care Service Working Group, and the doctors and care providers of the West Coast Family Medical Clinic, who, through collaboration and innovation, are working together to ensure our residents have access to medical services closer to home.”

Rose Dumont, administrative health co-ordinator, T’Sou-ke First Nation

“Building a new health-care facility such as the Sooke CHC/UPCC is more than just bricks and mortar. It's an opportunity to forge new relationships with us as First Nations neighbours through collaboration, mutual respect and enhanced services. By working together, we all can create a welcoming, culturally sensitive environment that promotes healing, wellness, and improved health outcomes for all members of our community.”

Alix Arndt, interim CEO, Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of B.C.

“Nurses and nurse practitioners of B.C. are pleased to see that the knowledge, skills and expertise of the entire health-care team will be utilized to improve access to health care for all British Columbians through urgent- and primary-care clinics. We believe that this approach will be pivotal in ensuring B.C. families can access health-care services, and we are excited to see the opening of another urgent- and primary-care clinic in B.C.”

SRCHN Seeking New Board Members and Advisors

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 19:56:57 GMT

Seeking New Board Members and Advisors!

Sooke Region Communities Health Network is working on two larger projects: Sooke Gathering Place, a seniors’ drop-in centre, under the Elders Complex; and the Sooke Region Community Health Centre to open in 2025. (link to project pages).

We are looking for people who are passionate about Sooke and have previous experience as a Board member or experience in overseeing development projects, finance and accounting backgrounds.

If you want to help SRCHN realize its mission to inn ovate, collaborate and improve services for all Sooke’s residents, please consider becoming a member of our Board or an advisor. For more information or to send an expression of interest (cover letter, resumé and references), please contact SRCHN’s President, Mary Dunn.

Sooke’s Vintage Cafe brings seniors together

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 19:11:40 GMT

Sooke's 55+ Crowd Gets More Opportunities to Connect and Socialize

The Vintage Cafe’s sudden surge in popularity has resulted in twice as many opportunities for Sooke’s seniors to make connections.

Since the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) launched the initiative, the Vintage Cafe has become a favourite gathering place for many seniors in the community, Christine Bossi, SRCHN executive director, said.

“The Vintage Cafe is such a great success since it opened in February that we decided to open every Tuesday instead of just the first and third Tuesdays of the month,” she said.

The community has been without a seniors centre for more than 10 years, although Bossi stressed that SRCHN is working hard to make plans for The Gathering Place and elders complex a reality.

“We felt that (in the meantime) some kind of activity to connect elders was in order,” she explained. “The Vintage Cafe is where the 55+ crowd can drop by for a free coffee or tea and an opportunity to socialize. All the participants are excited to connect with old friends they have not seen since before the pandemic or make new friends. Some discovered they lived on the same street and have continued socializing outside this event, even walking to the Vintage Cafe together.”

Bossi said the venue also provides an excellent opportunity to gather information about what’s happening in the region and to gain access to resources and services at the cafe’s resource table.

Presently, everyone has been content with the free light refreshment, chatting over board games, and playing cards or handicrafts.

SRCHN has plans to organize art sessions, bingo, musical and comedic entertainment, and guest speaker to provide more options for those who attend.

Suggestions on how to add improvements are welcomed by email at srchn@sookeregionchn.org or by telephone at 778-365-1878.

“You can always drop by and let us know your suggestion,” Bossi added.

For more on the Vintage Cafe and the resumption of the Seniors Centre Without Walls information sessions, please visit sookeregionchn.org/seniors-centre-without-walls.

The Vintage Cafe is open Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Sooke Community Hall dining room at 2037 Shields Rd.

April 16 to 22 is National Volunteer Week

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 18:36:24 GMT

The National Volunteer Week theme for 2023 is Volunteering Weaves Us Together. This reveals the importance of volunteering to the strength and vibrancy of our communities through the interconnected actions we take to support one another. These diverse forms of sharing our time, talent and energy strengthen the fabric of our community.

Through volunteering we experience our interconnectedness, making our lives more meaningful. Getting involved in various ways, we find friendship, develop trust, and link our relationships. Threading these connections, we come to belong as we contribute towards the same goals.

Like each individual thread makes weaving stronger, every volunteer’s experience, perspective, and abilities add to our collective resilience. Woven together from coast to coast to coast, volunteering reinforces our ability to grow, thrive, and create change within our community, province, and country.

Knowing our volunteer contributions are valued and meaningful creates a greater sense of purpose and dedication. From helping build a home, cleaning up a park, or coaching a sports team to cooking for an ill friend, checking in on a neighbour, or helping a stranger cross the street, each action we take impacts our community’s overall wellness, now and for future generations.

During National Volunteer Week 2023, we celebrate our collective impact: through our kindness, generosity and commitment to volunteering, we weave our lives together.

If you ARE a volunteer, THANK YOU! If you know a volunteer, thank them. If you want to volunteer, reach out to us and learn about all the amazing ways you can make a difference:.

March 2023 Newsletter

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 20:05:36 GMT

Sooke to Receive a New Community Health and Urgent Care Centre!

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and our MLA, John Horgan, made a joint announcement that after more than 8 years in the planning, lobbying, and proposal writing, Sooke’s new health centre gets the green light.

The Sooke Region Communities Health Network, (SRCHN) will own and operate the Community Health and Urgent Care Centre. We expect it to open late spring - early summer 2025. As a result this will significantly increase both physicians and nurse practitioners as well as registered nurses, mental health and substance counsellors, health promotion workers, and will add a cultural safety liaison. The multi-million dollar project will be funded by the Ministry of Health.

The CHC will be built behind the planned Elders' Complex, in the third quadrant of the District of Sooke's "Lot A".

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health and MLA John Horgan make joint announcement.In the background from left to right, Mary Dunn (SRCHN President), Elder THE-LA-ME-YÉ Shirley Alphonse, and Mayor Maja Tait (District of Sooke)..

NEW DAYS!

BY POPULAR DEMAND...

Happy days are here at the Vintage Cafe, now every Tuesday from 1-3pm starting April 4th.

Drop-in for free coffee and tea at the Sooke Community Hall's dining area on the ground floor. Have a chat, play some cards, do a craft, meet some new friends!

VOLUNTEERS HOSTS WANTED!
We are seeking volunteer hosts and hostesses to help keep the coffee and tea urns flowing and engage participants. If you are interested in volunteering, please email: scww@sookeregionchn.org.

Gearing Up for More Fundraising Fun!

Our Sooke community, fundraisers and volunteers have raised an impressive $99,620.33! We're still a long way from our goal. Stay tuned for many other opportunities to get involved in helping us raise the $2M needed to build this important community space!

If you wish to help us build Sooke Gathering Place, please donate online by clicking on the button below OR make a cheque payable to Sooke Region Communities Health Network and specify Sooke Gathering Place in the memo.

Mail cheques to SRCHN, PO Box 642 Sooke BC, V9Z 1H6Or drop off at 204-2120 Church Rd, Sooke

Sooke Legion Continues Supports for Sooke Gathering Place!
The next time you're at Sooke Legion 54, add a buck or two (or more!) to your order and help us raise the funds we need to build Sooke Gathering Place.

Together we can do it!

VOLUNTEERS WANTED!

We are always looking for volunteers to help facilitate a range of social, recreational and educational programs. Do you have a topic you are passionate about that you would love to share? Do you feel comfortable facilitating social group calls? Please contact our Programs Manager for more information at programs@sookeregionchn.org or call 778.365.1878

Current Seniors' Issues with BC Seniors' Advocate, Isobel Mackenzie
When: Wed, March 22, 2023, 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Where: Zoom
Host: Isobel Mackenzie, BC Seniors' Advocate
Description: Isobel Mackenzie, BC Seniors Advocate addresses issues that affect seniors in BC and the role of the Office of the Seniors Advocate. Don't miss out! Questions will be taken, so this is your chance to get your word in.

www.sookeregionchn.org/seniors-centre-without-walls . If you wish to join by telephone: to get the correct number please call the SRCHN office in advance 778-365-1878

East Sooke Handicrafts

When: March 28th and April 11th. The meetings are for seniors, 60+. Current Covid-19 vaccinations are required. For more info, contact eastsooketogether@gmail.com
Where: East Sooke Community Hall
Description: J oin the handicrafts group at East Sooke Community Hall. Bring your projects, show them off and socialize with your neighbours.

Supporting Community as We Age
BC Community Response Network (BC CRN) presents a series of important topics with the aim to prevent elder abuse. This series is open to all, elders and those in contact with them.
When: Thursdays from 1:00 to 2:30 as we cover these critical topics.

1. Hoarding, Bent but NOT Broken:
Thurs, March 30 - 1:00pm to 2:30pm
It is estimated that 1 in 20 people have some level of hoarding or serious clutter behaviour. This means in Greater Victoria alone - there are over 11,000 homes being affected. This can pose a significant danger to individuals, homes, first responders and the community at large. Hoarding & Clutter behaviour are on a spectrum and simply collecting or owning lots of things doesn't always mean HD. Let's delve into this topic and explore the many facets of clutter behaviour. Let's get your questions answered together.

2. Frauds & Scams
Thurs, April 6 - 1:00pm to 2:30pm

Do You Know Who's Really on the Other End of the Phone? Financial abuse is the most common form of elder abuse in Canada. $530 Million was lost to fraudsters in 2022.

Join us to explore different types of frauds and scams, and why seniors are the most targeted and also the most vulnerable. You'll also learn how to recognize a scam and what to do if you become a victim. Protect yourself!

3. See Something, Say Something
Thurs, May 4 - 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Reducing Risk for Older Adults program (formerly known as the Gatekeeper program) is designed to help identify high-risk adults, particularly those who live alone and who may be isolated. Everyone can play an important role in the community in keeping others safe, secure, and independent.

4. It's Not Right , Neighbours, Friends and Families for Older Adults
Thurs, June 15 - 1-2:30pm (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day)
It's Not Right! Neighbours, Friends & Families for Older Adults program is geared towards everyday people, residents, neighbours, family members, and friends of adults and older adults. The program discusses ageism, identifies the warning signs of adult abuse, and offers support and resources to help keep each other safe.
This session is for anyone who has contact with older or vulnerable adults: Bank personnel, meter readers, volunteers, caregivers, drivers, pharmacy personnel, post office workers, letter carrier, restaurant personnel, grocery store clerks, churches, social club -INCLUDING YOU!
Register to attend these online sessions. Click Here

SOOKE REGION LIFELING LEARNING

Art As Therapy

When: Thursday, March 30 from 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Where: Sooke Library Common Room (in person only)
Maximum attendees 15
Leader: Sheila Thomas

Local artist Sheila Thomas was planning a tour of Vancouver Island in her refurbished art bus/studio (Sheels On Wheels) when the pandemic hit in 2020 and slammed the brakes on that idea! She fled to the woods and continued offering art workshops closer to home, including sponsored sessions for our valued and stressed health care workers. She saw how the outdoor classes -- with paint, trees and sunshine (plus ice cream sandwiches!) helped these people explore and benefit from a creative form of emotional healing. And that's how it all began.

Description: Come let Sheila show you what art can do for your heart, and how colour, texture and playing with paint can boost your mood, dazzle your frazzle and feel like a good old healing hootenanny!

To Register for This Event Email Us Here

The Psychology of Dogs

When: Thursday, April 13 from 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Where: Sooke Library common room (and Zoom hybrid
Maximum registration 15 in person (no limit zoom)
Leader: Linda Watson
Linda Watson is Sooke’s very own “Dog Whisperer,” having trained in LA with the renowned Cesar Millan. She knew from that moment that cuddly canines were her future. She came back home to build Connected Canine, and now works exclusively with rescuing, rehabilitating, training and pack-walking dogs daily. Plus she is always fund-raising for good causes. She’s a busy gal!
Description: All relationships, including the ones we have with our furry friends, benefit from understanding and effective communications.

Come hear Linda share her hard-earned doggy tips and glory stories, and bring your questions and curiosity. Every dog deserves a good human, and the joy of an earned bond is undeniable.
To Register for this Event Email Us Here

SRLL BOOK CLUB
"THE IMMORTAL LIFE OF HENRIETTA LACKS" by Rebecca Skloot
Sessions: 2
When: Tuesdays, May 2 (discussion) and May 9 (Movie) from 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Where: Sooke Library common room (In-person only)
Max registration: 15 book club copies
Covid requirements: Masks optional
Leaders: David Mallett SRLL and April Ripley VIRL
Description: Her name was Henrietta Lacks, but scientists know her as HeLa. She was a poor black tobacco farmer who died of cervical cancer and whose cells—taken without her knowledge in 1951—became one of the most important tools in medicine, vital for developing the polio vaccine, cloning, gene mapping, and more. Henrietta's cells have been bought and sold by the billions, yet she remains virtually unknown, and her family can't afford health insurance. This phenomenal New York Times bestseller tells a riveting story of the collision between ethics, race, and medicine; of scientific discovery and faith healing; and of a daughter consumed with questions about the mother she never knew. The focus will be on personal rights, ethics, racism, remuneration and compensation for the heirs of Henrietta Lacks. This story was and is of such significance that Oprah Winfrey was instrumental in the creation of a film, producing and starring as the daughter of Henrietta Lacks. In the second session, after discussing the book, we will view and discuss the movie version.
To Register for this Event Email Us Here

World Events

Sessions: 2
When: Thursdays, April 20 and April 27 from 1:00pm – 2:30 pm
Where: ZOOM only
Max registration: Open
Covid requirements: None
Leader: Chris Moss
Description: World events are forever with us when we turn on the NEWS. What are your thoughts on the items of the day? Politics? Violence? Climate? Economics? Health Care? Bring your opinions to the table and have your say.
To Register for this Event Email Us Here

Free Tax Clinic

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 16:37:48 GMT

SRCHN Offers Free Tax Assistance!

If doing your simple taxes is taxing for you - we are here to help. Our free income tax program is available to individuals, youth, seniors and persons with disabilities with a simple tax situation and modest income. Drop off your tax forms during office hours for our volunteer tax preparers to complete. This free service is available until April 14th.

Call 778.365.1878 or email programs@sookeregionchn.org if you have any questions. Our drop-in hours are Tue-Thu from 10am to 2pm. 204-2120 Church Road, Sooke.

SRCHN Receives Funding for Community Health Centre

programs@sookeregionchn.org (Sooke Region CHN) — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 16:07:33 GMT

Sooke to Receive a New Community Health and Urgent Care Centre!

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and our MLA, John Horgan, made a joint announcement this morning - after more than 8 years in the planning, lobbying, and proposal writing, Sooke’s new health centre was announced this morning. The Sooke Region Communities Health Network, will own and operate the Community Health and Urgent Care Centre. We expect it to open late spring - early summer 2025. As a result there will significantly increase both physicians and nurse practitioners as well as registered nurses, mental health and substance counsellors, health promotion workers, and will add a cultural safety liaison. The multi-million dollar project will be funded by the Ministry of Health.

Sooke Gathering Place fundraising campaign gains momentum

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 03:14:17 GMT

Sooke Region Communities Health Network hopes to raise $2 million

Sooke became one of only a few communities in the region without a dedicated senior center when the Sooke Senior Drop-in Center closed in 2010. But that’s about to change.

The Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) hopes to raise $2 million to build the Sooke Gathering Place, which will be part of the $34-million elders complex next to the public library on Wadams Way.

While the not-for-profit society has been fundraising in bits and pieces for the last year, the current total remains at around $75,000, quite short of the targeted goal, but SRCHN president Mary Dunn sees a new opportunity with a partnership with the Sooke News Mirror.

The News Mirror will provide a monthly fundraising page for SRCHN, highlighting some aspects of the Gathering Place and listing donors to the project.

“It’s going to expand our visibility and create the opportunity for people to get some recognition for their generous donation,” Dunn said.

A third of Sooke’s population is over 55, which is expected to double in the next 20 years.

The 5,000-square-foot Sooke Gathering Place will provide much-needed space for senior activities, crafts, dining, games and socializing.

The space will incorporate a youth/intergenerational component, and the facility will be available for community events. In addition, talks are ongoing with Island Health in the hopes they will set up offices to provide medical support, such as foot clinics, bath program and adult day programming. The Sooke Arts Council has also asked for space to run art programs for residents and community members of all ages.

To donate, please click here or drop by the the Sooke Regiion Communities Health Network, No. 204-2120 Church Rd. Donations can also be made through Canada Helps .

Fundraiser Auction for Sooke Gathering Place (Elders' Centre)

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 23:30:50 GMT

Be sure to check out SRCHN's auction to raise funds for the Sooke Gathering Place!

COMING SOON - our BIG ONLINE AUCTION for Sooke Gathering Place. Bid to win fine art, local products & services, electronics, home goods and much more!
Art can be viewed at our Sooke Arts Council gallery show between 11am and 4pm, Feb 8 to 12th (2043 Church Road).
Pin the page: https://www.32auctions.com/srchn
Check back often as many more items will be added in the coming days!
Save the date, don't miss out!

SRCHN Open House Jan. 27, 2023 - 10am - 5pm

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 20:37:27 GMT

Be sure to welcome the New Year with a visit to SRCHN's open house. Light refreshments will be served.

We look forward to seeing you there!

SRCHN's Seniors Centre Without Walls in the News!

ed@sookeregionchn.org (ED empty) — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 20:17:04 GMT

SCWW was in the Sooke News Mirror!

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/community/senior-centre-without-walls-returns-to-sooke/

Be sure to join these free sessions!

We have a whole bunch of online informational sessions and some social gatherings as well. Be sure to visit SRCHN's Seniors Centre Without Walls webpage here , for more details.

Sooke Gathering Place Fundraising

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 02:31:57 GMT

Way to Go Sooke! So far, we have raised just over $80,000.00 towards the building of the Sooke Gathering Place.

We will be doing an on-line auction with the funds going towards the Sooke Gathering Place. Dates are Feb. 10, 11 and 12. Closing at noon on Dec 12th. Art items that have been donated will be on display at the Sooke Arts Council Gallery Feb 8 - noon Feb 12. Someone with a tablet will be present at the Arts Council to help place on-line bids if they are unable to do so at home. Details to follow.

Stay tuned for more fundraising events!
We are currently working on a Celtic concert and more dances.
We are also working on t-shirts that will be for sale on our website.

Thank you to the Sooke Mudslingers for raising $3,266.12 from selling their goods at the All Sooke Christmas Craft Fair.

Thank you to Erin for donating quilts and Gunny for organizing the quilt raffle which is going very well.
For more information about our fundraiser, please email: srchn@sookeregionchn.org or call the SRCHN office: 778-365-1878.

Seniors Centre Without Walls is Back!

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 01:49:37 GMT

After a short hiatus, SCWW is to resume in January until June 2023. This free online informational and social series takes place through zoom but may be joined by phone as well.

Seniors Centre Without Walls Has Returned!

After a short hiatus, SCWW is to resume in January until June 2023. This free online informational and social series takes place through zoom but may be joined by phone as well.

Guest speakers:

Isobel Makenzie, BC Seniors Advocate - Updates on Seniors Issues
BC CRN - Prevention of Elder Abuse series
Family Caregivers of BC providing informational resources for family caregivers
Marla Ilo, Digital Coordinator, Victoria Literacy Connection (VLC) - free digital support tutoring program
Linda Hunt is returning to present four sessions about Aging Gracefully on the second Wed. of the month/
Pharmasave's pharmacists will contribute with a series on the second and fourth Thursday of the month. Topics to be announced.
Layton Engwer will host "Men's Talk", where men can shoot the breeze with their peers. Topics to be determined on an ongoing basis. Sessions will be on the first and third Wednesday of the month.
Handicraft show and tells to be held on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

To keep tabs on talks, please visit the SCWW webpage .

To get the phone number to call in on SCWW sessions and hard copy of the schedule, kindly call the SRCHN office: 778-365-1878.

If you have suggestions for presentations, or wish to present yourself, please let us know: scww@sookeregionchn.org.

For those who still do not feel comfortable with zooming and using digital tools in general, you can drop-in at the SRCHN office on Jan 10 and 13th from 10:30am - 2:30pm. A VLC volunteer will help to get you started. Other future digital support sessions may be arranged upon request.

Also, do not miss out on the upcoming free chair exercises at the library and Shirley Hall, in addition to the crafting at East Sooke Community Hall! Postings on the SCWW webpage.

SRCHN News

UPDATE ON THE SRCHN EFFORTS TO ESTABLISH THE SOOKE GATHERING PLACE

In Memoriam

Sooke Selected for BC Builds is Good News for New Community Health Centre

Update on the Sooke Region Community Health

and Urgent and Primary Care Centre (CHC-UPCC)

Rotary Club of Sooke Strikes Again!

This is a subtitle for your new post

Photo left to right: Mary Dunn, Vice President & Marlene Barry Sooke, member of the Fundraising Committee of the Region Communities Health Network accepting the cheque from Roger Temple, Community Service Chair and Deena Fiddler, President of the Rotary Club of Sooke. Photo by Linda Ferguson

Sooke accelerates plans for state-of-the-art integrated health-care centre

Sooke Region’s mental health services critically insufficient

Sooke Region Communities Health Network calls for urgent government action

Fundraisers rally support for the Gathering Place

Summer 2023 Newsletter

NEW WAYS TO HELP BUILD SOOKE GATHERING PLACE

Join Our SRCHN Resource Directory

Vote for a Spectacular Senior in Sooke

New Ways to Help Fund Sooke Gathering Place

The Little Town That Could

THE LITTLE TOWN THAT COULD

New integrated health-care centre coming to Sooke

People living in Sooke and the surrounding area will benefit from a new integrated health-care centre offering team-based services in the heart of Sooke village.

SRCHN Seeking New Board Members and Advisors

Sooke’s Vintage Cafe brings seniors together

April 16 to 22 is National Volunteer Week

March 2023 Newsletter

Sooke to Receive a New Community Health and Urgent Care Centre!

East Sooke Handicrafts

SOOKE REGION LIFELING LEARNING Art As Therapy

The Psychology of Dogs

World Events

Free Tax Clinic

SRCHN Receives Funding for Community Health Centre

Sooke to Receive a New Community Health and Urgent Care Centre!

Sooke Gathering Place fundraising campaign gains momentum

Sooke Region Communities Health Network hopes to raise $2 million

Fundraiser Auction for Sooke Gathering Place (Elders' Centre)

Be sure to check out SRCHN's auction to raise funds for the Sooke Gathering Place!

SRCHN Open House Jan. 27, 2023 - 10am - 5pm

Be sure to welcome the New Year with a visit to SRCHN's open house. Light refreshments will be served.

SRCHN's Seniors Centre Without Walls in the News!

SCWW was in the Sooke News Mirror!

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/community/senior-centre-without-walls-returns-to-sooke/

Be sure to join these free sessions!

Sooke Gathering Place Fundraising

Way to Go Sooke! So far, we have raised just over $80,000.00 towards the building of the Sooke Gathering Place.

Seniors Centre Without Walls is Back!

After a short hiatus, SCWW is to resume in January until June 2023. This free online informational and social series takes place through zoom but may be joined by phone as well.

SOOKE REGION LIFELING LEARNING

Art As Therapy