The Island Kids Cancer Association (IKCA) was formed in 2017 to fill a gap in services on Vancouver Island. After a childhood cancer diagnosis, families often need to spend time on the mainland in Vancouver for treatments, but the support needs to exist in their home communities as well. Beyond medical expertise and experience, families need to live and navigate their experiences, connect with one another, and receive access to supportive resources such as financial assistance and mental health and wellness opportunities. IKCA understands that a childhood
cancer diagnosis is often a lonely and frightening experience that impacts
everyone — including siblings and extended family members, and so they filled the gap.

While growing as a charity, IKCA remains local and grassroots. They've grown in community partnerships recognizing that community support is crucial to continue assisting the children and families facing childhood cancer. They've been able to expand the offerings that they can provide to families which focus on connection, mental health and wellness, and financial support.

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