St. John Council for Nova Scotia/Prince Edward Island

The St. John Council for Nova Scotia/Prince Edward Island is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization, operating as a branch of the international humanitarian organization St. John Ambulance. It is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency under the business number 108022518RR0001.

Background and History

St. John Ambulance in Nova Scotia has a rich history dating back to 1892, when the St. John Ambulance Association of Nova Scotia was founded in Halifax. The association was established in cooperation with Dalhousie Medical College, the City of Halifax, the navy, and the army, with the primary goals of providing training in first aid and home nursing, and assisting the community in times of need. Over the years, the organization has played significant roles during major events such as the South African War, the Halifax Explosion in 1917, and both World Wars I and II.

Programs and Activities

Today, the St. John Council for Nova Scotia/Prince Edward Island is the largest provider of first aid training in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, serving both individuals and institutions. The organization offers several community service programs:

• Therapy Dog Program: This program encompasses over 300 Therapy Dog teams across Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. These teams provide comfort and companionship through regular visits to hospitals, seniors' residences, nursing homes, universities, and airports.
• Volunteer Medical Responders: Comprising about 300 trained volunteers, this group provides first aid services at various public events across Nova Scotia.

Charitable Work and Impact

As part of the global St. John Ambulance movement, the organization supports charitable initiatives both domestically and internationally. Revenue from first aid and CPR training courses is used to fund St. John Ambulance's charitable work, contributing to a broader humanitarian mission.

Registration and Status

The St. John Council for Nova Scotia/Prince Edward Island is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity, adhering to all necessary regulatory requirements. This status allows the organization to focus on its community-oriented services while maintaining compliance with Canadian charitable laws.