RBC Foundation Grants $50,000 to Help Expand Lifelines of Connection for Chronically Ill Youth

Toronto, ON – Kids’ Health Links Foundation (KHLF) is proud and grateful to announce it has received a $50,000 grant from the RBC Foundation to expand On Common Grounds, a critical peer support program for youth aged 13–23 living with chronic illnesses across Canada.

This one-year gift from RBC Foundation will help KHLF to bring On Common Grounds to more youth in rural, remote, and underserved communities, where access to emotional and social support is often limited or non-existent.

On Common Grounds provides online, diagnosis-specific support groups led by certified Child Life Specialists. Through creative workshops, themed conversations, and peer mentorship, the program creates a safe space for youth to connect with others who truly understand their journey—reducing isolation and building resilience.

“Young people living with chronic illnesses often feel like no one ‘gets it,’ especially when they’re far from the hospitals or support services found in major cities,” said Kim Henry, Executive Director of Kids’ Health Links Foundation. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of RBC Foundation, we can now offer more lifelines of connection to youth who need it most.”

Youth participants consistently report powerful emotional benefits. One teen shared, “For the first time, I didn’t have to explain what I was going through—everyone just got it. I finally felt like I belonged.”

This expansion also strengthens the bridge into KHLF’s larger Upopolis community, which connects over 550 youth annually and has helped more than 12,000 young people since 2007. With more youth relying on outpatient care and fewer chances to connect in person, programs like On Common Grounds are becoming essential to supporting their mental and emotional well-being.

“We’re honoured to receive this funding from RBC Foundation,” Henry added. “Together, we’re creating meaningful, lasting change—giving youth facing serious health challenges the connection, confidence, and community they deserve.”

To learn more about Kids’ Health Links Foundation, On Common Grounds and the broader Upopolis platform, visit www.kidshealthlinks.org or www.upopolis.ca

Media Contact:
Kim Henry
Executive Director, Kids’ Health Links Foundation
kim@kidshealthlinks.org
519-496-9999

Tuesday in Tuscany Fundraising Dinner Returns to Support Youth Facing Serious Health Challenges

Kids’ Health Links Foundation hosts an unforgettable evening on June 24 at Alioli Restaurante, presented by CPDN, to fund vital mental wellness programs for young people across Canada.

Mississauga, ON – May 7, 2025 – On June 24, join us for Tuesday in Tuscany, a powerful night of purpose and connection hosted at Alioli Restaurante in Mississauga. Organized by Kids’ Health Links Foundation (KHLF), this meaningful fundraising dinner—presented by CPDN (Canadian Pharmaceutical Distribution Network)—supports youth across Canada who are navigating life with chronic illness, medical trauma, or grief.

These young people often face their health journeys in isolation—missing school, friendships, and the support systems most take for granted. KHLF’s flagship program, Upopolis, offers a lifeline: a secure, supportive online platform where youth can connect with peers, access mental health resources, and feel understood.

“Every ticket purchased and every sponsorship secured directly impacts the life of a young person struggling with health challenges,” says Kim Henry, Executive Director of KHLF. “Tuesday in Tuscany isn’t just a dinner—it’s a chance to be part of someone’s healing journey.”

This intimate evening will feature:

• A multi-course Italian dining experience at Alioli Restaurante

• Powerful stories that show how your support transforms lives

• A chance to make a lasting impact on youth mental wellness

Tickets and sponsorships are available now—but space is limited.

Whether you attend as a guest or sponsor, your support helps youth facing health challenges build resilience, connection, and hope.

Reserve your seat or become a sponsor today:
www.kidshealthlinks.org/tuesday-in-tuscany-2024

For media inquiries or sponsorship information, contact:
Basile Papaevangelou | 647-880-3037

About Kids’ Health Links Foundation
Kids' Health Links Foundation empowers youth facing medical and emotional challenges by providing access to digital programs that foster connection, resilience, and mental wellness. Through Upopolis, youth across Canada can find strength and support when they need it most.

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