News release

For immediate release

Putting our “HeArts Together” for the community

Saanich, BC – To help address the isolation felt by some of the community’s most vulnerable citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to remind all to continue to be safe and caring for all as we move forward together, Saanich Parks, Recreation and Community Services has been busy working with community partners to “put our hearts together” for the community.

Through the “HeArts Together” Community Art Project, hand-made hearts have been created by residents of long term care facilities, participants accessing services through a number of community service organizations, and children and youth participating in Saanich Recreation programs. Hearts and messages are being assembled in outdoor displays in parks around Saanich starting with Rutledge, Cadboro/Gyro and Rainbow Parks.

“Hearts have come to symbolize our caring for loved ones, neighbors and the community and they also express our gratitude to health care and essential workers,” said Community Arts Specialist Brenda Weatherston. “We hope these collective heart displays will serve as a legacy of our experience during these challenging times and show how we can come together as a community while remaining safely apart.”

Collaborating organizations

Organizations that have collaborated on the project include Aberdeen Hospital and the Priory, The Heights at Mount View, Garth Homer Society, Victoria Cool Aid Society, Inter-cultural Association of Greater Victoria, Salvation Army, Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Society, Victoria Native Friendship Centre and the Victoria Women’s Transition House. A few more collaborations may be possible, and interested community service organizations or facilities can contact Saanich staff for more information.

Saanich is extremely grateful for the support from the Community Foundations of Canada Emergency Community Support Fund, the community in-kind donations, and the invaluable support from collaborating community partners that have helped bring this project to the community.

Learn more

Visit the HeArts Together page to learn more about the project and the displays.

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Media contact:
Brenda Weatherston, Community Arts Specialist
brenda.weatherston@saanich.ca
250-888-6113