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A huge share of healthcare resources is used to treat already-established disease. In contrast, GWCHF is focused on the "upstream" determinants of health. We are concentrating on the root causes of disease, addressing health risks at an early stage when prevention, early intervention and health promotion have the biggest benefits.
With a focus on health equity, we strategically allocate resources to move the needle on key child health indicators. Our strategic priorities include:
Weaving a web of support for young children and families
Providing great early learning opportunities
Creating systems of student supports
Growing resilient communities
Making health the easy choice
For each of our strategies, we closely monitor a performance indicator to ensure we are moving the needle with our investments.
Strong, healthy families lay the foundation for a child's success. We strategically weave a web of support so young children and families have the five key strengths to thrive:
Showing kids how to name, understand and manage emotions, express themselves and get along with others.
Learning to support their child's growth at every age and stage.
Building a network of people who care about each other.
Keeping it together – and even growing stronger – during times of stress.
Seeking support in times of need and knowing how to accept help when it's offered.
Development in a child's early years is critical to their lifelong health and learning. By providing great early learning opportunities, children will be equipped with the social, emotional and developmental readiness skills to be successful in school.
Every child deserves the support needed in order for him or her to be successful in school. We work with educators to create systems of student supports so every child can thrive.
Studies show that children who enjoy good nutrition and regular physical activity feel better, behave better, are more attentive, have fewer absences, and achieve higher academic outcomes. When we make health the easy choice, children can develop habits to promote long-term wellness.
social emotional well-being
When children are well socially and emotionally, they are better able to thrive in all areas of life. High social and emotional competence increases high school and post-secondary education completion rates, employment rates and average wages. It decreases dropout rates, behavior and mental health challenges, teen pregnancy, drug use and criminal behavior.
We invest in building systems that focus on growing resilient communities with the conditions needed for all children to be socially and emotionally well.