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Free Stays for Families with Sick Children in BC
29 Oct
Summary
- Airbnb.org partners with Northern B.C. Friends of Children.
- Program offers free temporary accommodation for families.
- Expanded medical stays aim to reduce family financial burdens.
A groundbreaking partnership in British Columbia will soon offer free temporary accommodation to families traveling for a child's medical treatment. Airbnb.org, the non-profit arm of Airbnb, is collaborating with Northern B.C. Friends of Children to expand its medical stays program. This initiative marks a significant step in supporting families through challenging times.
Launched in Mexico last fall, the medical stays program is now making its Canadian debut. Airbnb's new funding model will direct a portion of booking revenue to Airbnb.org, projecting to provide one million nights of free housing over the next five years. Friends of Children will utilize this support to alleviate financial strain on families, covering essential non-medical expenses like travel and accommodation.
Patricia Whalen, president of Friends of Children, highlighted the advantages of Airbnb accommodations, noting they offer more space, privacy, and a quieter environment compared to hotels, which is crucial for children recovering from illness. This partnership aims to allow families to concentrate fully on their child's health and well-being.
