Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence announced today about three recipients in Nova Scotia organizations will receive funding through the Veteran and Family Well‑Being Fund (VFWF).
VFWF was created in 2018, to provide financial support through innovative projects, initiatives, and research to private, public, and academic organizations striving to improve the lives of Veterans and their families.
The three organizations include Veteran Farm Project Society, The Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association, and The Nova Seven Arts Council, and would receive $75,000, $90,000, and $10,000 respectively from Veterans Affairs Canada.
“These three organizations have developed new and innovative ways to support Veterans…I commend them for the good work they’ve done so far and look forward to seeing the positive results this funding will bring Veterans,” MacAulay said in a news release today.
Veteran Farm Project Society, which provides women Veterans with a safe environment after service where they can participate in activities like growing produce, tending to the memorial flower garden, art projects, and archery.
“We’re proud to have created a safe place where women who’ve served their country can come together…grow more than vegetables and flowers: they also grow new skills, new friendships – and grow stronger every day,” said Jessica Miller Founder & Director, Veteran Farm Project Society in the news release.
The Free Spirit Therapeutic Riding Association would deliver an 18-month program for women Veterans to build resiliency through equine-assisted psychotherapy sessions.
“Thanks to the generous Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund…to provide services to Veterans who are women and/or identify from the 2SLGBTQ+ community by creating a safe community…We believe that when strong relationships are formed and we gain a sense of belonging, we all have the freedom to thrive,” said Alissa Cue, Owner/Operator of Rohan Wood Stables, Equine Specialist and Head Coach for the Free Spirit in the news release.
The Nova Seven Arts Council, a community art space, is providing a free, accessible program introducing expressive arts therapy to medically releasing military personnel, their families, and Veterans.
“The creation of art can change our perspective…Veteran and Family Well-Being Fund, this program will be a positive outlet for military members, supporting their mental wellness through the creative process,” said Amber Juby, Founder, and President of NOVA Seven Arts Council in the news release.
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