Investing in Canada’s Black communities
Sun Life’s funding of $825,000 to the Foundation for Black Communities over three years signals a shift in our approach to giving.
Canada’s Black communities have traditionally been some of its most underfunded and underserved. At the same time, they face a higher risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, and higher instances of mental health challenges. Both these experiences have been made worse by the effects of the pandemic.
We’ve partnered with the Foundation for Black Communities to start addressing this imbalance. We’re pleased to be working with Canada’s first Black-led, Black-mandated philanthropic foundation. Their mandate is to ensure every Black person in Canada can thrive and define their own future.
Working with Black-led and Black-serving organizations, the Foundation identifies the areas of greatest need. Sun Life’s funding will support mental health programs that teach coping skills and resilience to young people. We will also support physical activity programs for youth that encourage healthy active lifestyles.
In addition to funding, we will look for opportunities for Sun Life employees to volunteer with Black-led organizations.
Liban Abokor
Working group member for the Foundation for Black Communities
“While this partnership begins to address chronic underinvestment, it also represents a new approach to philanthropy, acknowledging Black communities’ agency in directing and determining where investments should be aimed”
This work supports our priority SDG target 3.8:
By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
Learn more about our efforts to support community wellness and diversity, equity and inclusion.
