BHP invests $150,000 in community learning
- communications
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
NEWS RELEASE: March 13, 2026
A new grant from BHP will help strengthen free learning opportunities in communities across North Vancouver Island. BHP has awarded Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society (MWFLS) $50,000 per year for the next three years, for a total investment of $150,000.
“BHP is actively caring for the water and lands at their former Island Copper Mine site and continues to support local communities and First Nations in the North Island through important initiatives and programs like those provided by the Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society,” said Jay Hartling, Principal Indigenous Engagement, NOJV and Legacy Assets, North America at BHP.
“The Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society has grown so much over the past few years,” said Laura Kaminker, co-chair of the MWFLS Board of Directors. “We’ve been able to provide more and different services to North Island folks, expanding into food literacy, digital literacy, English-language learning, and after school programs. With increased programming comes increased administration costs, so funding is always top-of-mind. These generous funds from BHP will allow the Society to continue to deliver a wide range of programming for the next three years. We are deeply grateful that BHP has recognized the Society’s work and is helping to make that work possible.”
One of BHP’s focus areas is, “Thriving, empowered communities that contribute to long-term prosperity and resilience.” Literacy programs create opportunities for people of all ages to build skills and confidence. They help adults overcome barriers to employment and community participation, help children improve reading skills and encourage families to learn together.
“BHP have been amazing to work with and are very committed to supporting literacy initiatives in the North Island region,” said Donna Merry, Co-chair of the MWFLS Board of Directors. “With this multi-year support the Society can focus on literacy programming for all ages and improving governance to support this growing organization for the long term. Quick fact, the society currently supports five part-time employees and five casual facilitators who engage across the region for pre-school, school-aged and adult literacy learners. Thank you, BHP and all of the staff and volunteers who support literacy activities in our region. Much appreciated!”
The Mount Waddington Family Literacy Society works with communities, schools and organizations to support literacy and learning on North Vancouver Island. Ongoing free programs include Mother Goose On-the-Go for families, reading tutors for children and Community Adult Literacy Programs.
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