Fraser Health secures grants to expand social prescribing, connecting seniors in Surrey with community programs for fitness, nutrition, and social support.
Surrey Expands Social Prescribing to Boost Senior Wellness
A New Chapter for Senior Health
Fraser Health is taking a bold step forward in senior care. With fresh funding in hand, the health authority is scaling up an innovative approach known as social prescribing—a wellness-driven program designed to keep older adults active, connected, and thriving in their communities.
What Exactly Is Social Prescribing?
Instead of just handing out medications, social prescribing connects seniors with local programs that support healthy aging. Think group exercise classes, nutrition programs, caregiver support, and even opportunities to socialize. The idea is simple: prevent illness by strengthening community ties and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Introduced to Fraser Health in 2021, the initiative is already being hailed as a game-changer. Dr. Grace Park, physician lead and research head for healthy aging, calls Fraser Health a pioneer in the movement. “We’ve been able to put this into practice across the region in a systemic way,” she explained.
Funding Sparks Expansion
The program just received two development grants from Michael Smith Health Research BC. Partnering with United Way, Simon Fraser University, and UBC, Fraser Health will now build a framework to evaluate and expand the model.
If more funding follows, this success story could spread across other health regions in British Columbia.
How It Works in Communities
Across 15 Fraser Health communities, 21 trained seniors’ connectors are already guiding older adults to resources. These connectors aren’t all healthcare workers—some are retired professionals or community leaders who understand local needs.
In Surrey, services are available at:
Brella Community Services (15008 26 Ave.)
Progressive Intercultural Community Services (12075 75A Ave.)
DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society (13455 76 Ave.)
All programs are supported by the Ministry of Health through the United Way.
Real Impact on Real Lives
Registered nurse Margaret Lin, who leads the regional project, says the program is already changing lives. “We can see the difference it makes for older adults and families. With more funding, we’ll expand this even further to improve health and quality of life across the province.”
What’s Next?
Applications for development awards of up to $50,000 are underway for 2025, with larger three-year team awards—worth up to $7 million—set to be announced in December. If approved, the expansion could reshape how aging is supported across British Columbia.
Clear takeaway: Surrey is redefining healthcare for seniors by prescribing connection, activity, and support—not just medicine.
