About Us

Helping seniors age with dignity since 1982

Since 1982, Eldercare Foundation has been working to improve quality of life for seniors on Vancouver Island. We partner with Island Health, donors, and community organizations to fund programs that support aging in place, enhance long-term care, and advance education for caregivers and healthcare professionals.

Who we are

Improving the journey of aging

Eldercare Foundation is a registered charity helping older adults live with dignity, safety, and connection. We fund vital care, equipment, and education needs across Vancouver Island to support seniors wherever they call home.

Our stats

What your generosity makes possible

seniors supported monthly

research & education awards given

care sites and programs

TIMELINE

Over 40 years of impact

1982

Eldercare Foundation is launched as the Juan de Fuca Hospitals Foundation to support care at Glengarry, Aberdeen, Mt. Tolmie, and Priory. The foundation begins thanks to a $114,000 bequest from Margaret Nicholson.

1983-1985

A $53,215 bequest from Ruth A. Gardner creates the Foundation’s first research endowment. Two years later, the Ruth A. Gardner Award is established—now one of 11 education funds.

1990-2000

Support expands beyond care facilities to include community programs. In 1994, the Foundation funds its first bus for Adult Day Programs. In 1999, Heritage Woods is built and added as a supported site.

2001

With the creation of regional health authorities, the Foundation is renamed the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation to reflect its growing scope.

2003-2006

A $1M gift from Olga Yakimovich enables the opening of the Hillside Seniors Health Centre. In 2006, the Yakimovich Wellness Centre opens for public education sessions.

2007

Oak Bay Lodge becomes part of Eldercare’s supported facilities.

2010-2014

The Foundation begins funding more Adult Day Programs, including the West Shore and Mobile Adult Day Program serving Sooke, Metchosin, Cordova Bay and Elk Lake. In 2014, the SAFE Lifeline program launches to help seniors live independently and safely at home.

2020

Mt. Tolmie and Oak Bay Lodge are decommissioned and replaced by The Summit.

2022-2025

Eldercare receives a transformational bequest from the estate of Kathleen Sheret, expanding its reach across Vancouver Island. In 2024, Eldercare pledges $1M in support for long-term care innovations in Comox, and it expands community program growth in Nanaimo, Oceanside, and Cowichan. In 2025, the foundation is renamed the Eldercare Foundation of Vancouver Island.