Sun Life has announced an additional commitment of $1.53 million to combat diabetes, marking World Diabetes Day with a focus on partnerships aimed at addressing the rising rates of type 2 diabetes. This funding includes a new partnership and $735,000 commitment over three years with Trillium Health Partners Foundation, a renewal of a $495,000 partnership with the William Osler Health System Foundation (Osler Foundation), and an additional $300,000 to YMCA Three Rivers.
The collaboration with Trillium Health Partners Foundation aims to tackle increasing rates of type 2 diabetes by supporting the Institute for Better Health (IBH) at Trillium Health Partners. The initiative will provide health coaching and system navigation services for youth and families at high risk in South Asian, Black, African, and Caribbean communities in Peel Region.
"Diabetes is a growing health concern across Canada. Peel Region has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes," said Dave Jones, President of Sun Life Health. "We're proud to be partnering with Trillium Health Partners Foundation."
Since 2012, Sun Life has invested over $55 million globally in strategic partnerships targeting vulnerable communities affected by diabetes. The new partnership seeks to advance education and prevention efforts at grassroots levels.
"Thanks to the generous support of Sun Life, this project will lay the groundwork for future community-based diabetes prevention programming," said Simone Harrington, Vice-President at Institute for Better Health.
Sun Life also renewed two key partnerships totaling an additional $795,000 in funding:
- A $495,000 commitment over three years to Osler Foundation supports workshops under the Sun Life | Osler Healthy Active Living Initiative.
- A $300,000 contribution over three years funds YMCA Three Rivers' Diabetes Fit program promoting healthy lifestyles.
In addition to these initiatives focused on healthcare partnerships, Sun Life's global commitment is highlighted in a BBC series exploring how sport can drive positive social change. The series features two videos showcasing programs such as Hoops + Health in Asia and Spirit North's work with Indigenous youth in Canada.
For more information about Sun Life's initiatives against diabetes and their partnerships visit their Diabetes Hub online.