Y.A.N.A. Fund Society

The Y.A.N.A. Fund Society (You Are Not Alone Fund Society) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families in the Comox Valley region of British Columbia who must travel outside their community for medical treatment related to children or pregnancy. It holds the business registration number 119305449RR0001 and operates as a registered charity under the Canada Revenue Agency.

History and Mission

Founded in 1986 by Sandra Williams, Y.A.N.A. was established following Williams' personal experience with the financial and emotional hardships of having a seriously ill child who required extended medical treatment in Vancouver. The organization's enduring mission is to ensure that families in the Comox Valley facing medical challenges are not isolated and have the necessary support to focus on the health and wellness of their children and pregnant mothers.

Services

Y.A.N.A. provides comprehensive assistance including:

• Accommodation: The organization maintains four fully furnished apartments within walking distance of BC Children's Hospital. It also aids in locating and funding accommodation in other treatment centers as needed.

• Financial Support: Y.A.N.A. offers funding to help with travel, food, parking, and unexpected expenses associated with medical travel. It also provides funding to the North Island Hospital Comox Valley to support families requiring emergency transfers.

This multifaceted support helps alleviate the logistical and financial burdens on families during difficult medical journeys.

Community Engagement and Events

One of Y.A.N.A.'s notable annual events is the YANA Big Love Benefit, a dinner and auction that celebrates community generosity and raises funds to assist families. The event gathers local supporters and broader audiences through in-person attendance and livestreaming, featuring an online auction and opportunities for donations to sustain the charity’s efforts.

Recognition and Registration

Y.A.N.A. Fund Society is officially recognized as a registered charity in Canada, compliant with the Canada Revenue Agency's requirements, facilitating tax-deductible donations and transparent fundraising operations.

Impact

Over the decades, Y.A.N.A. has become a pillar of community support in the Comox Valley, embodying the principle that no family should face medical crises alone. By addressing both the practical and emotional needs of families, Y.A.N.A. significantly eases the burden of medical travel for vulnerable children and pregnant mothers.

This article summarizes the key aspects of the Y.A.N.A. Fund Society based on publicly available information.