Northern Health opens applications for 2026 Imagine Grants 

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health has now opened the application intake period for this year’s Imagine community grants. 

As of June 1st, applications are open to numerous organizations, including non-profit and community organizations, First Nation Bands, health centres and Indigenous organizations.

Local governments, schools and parent advisory councils are also eligible to apply for the grants. 

Northern Health said the grants will provide up to $10,000 for “projects that address community-led health and wellness initiatives while improving the well-being of all northern BC residents.”

Funded projects must support at least one of the following initiatives. 

• Addressing population mental health and wellness
• Prevention and reduction of substance-related harms 
• Promoting physical health and preventing injuries
• Supporting health impacts from climate change
• Improving food security and access to nutritious food 
• Supporting families, youth and children

Northern Health said “strong” projects should focus on a community-identified need, involve community members in planning, reflect local culture, strengths and ways of knowing.

Projects should be inclusive, respectful, welcoming, reduce barriers for participants and “address unfair differences in health where possible.” 

Projects will be given priority if they bring together people and organizations, build or strengthen community relationships, clearly demonstrate how partners will work together and help build skills or leadership among other criteria, according to Northern Health. 

The Charlie Lake Community Garden previously received a $10,000 grant focused on food security, while the Fort St. John and Area Senior Care Foundation’s Reach Out Program received $10,000 towards mental wellness. 

The application period is open until July 5th, with funding released in September. 

For more information on the grants, visit the Northern Health website.