Our main areas of support for the community
Our commitment to the community takes shape through these key areas of support, which are at the heart of the Sibylla Hesse Foundation’s mission
Health and Research
The foundation is actively engaged in the fight against Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. ME/CFS is a complex, chronic, and disabling illness that affects multiple systems, including the neurological, immune, energy, and cardiovascular systems.
We support organizations and research teams dedicated to better understanding the causes, developing diagnostic tools, effective treatments, and prevention strategies.
To learn more, visit the Open Medicine Foundation Canada, a foundation-supported organization.
Beyond ME/CFS, the foundation also contributes to medical research, prevention, and support for patients and caregivers in areas such as:
- Cancer
- Neurocognitive disorders and Alzheimer’s
- Degenerative diseases
- Mental health
Youth Well-Being
Committed to empowering the next generation, the foundation proudly supports initiatives that:
- Promote culture and sports
- Encourage academic success and social inclusion of young adults
- Improve access to recreation and nature
- Strengthen parenting support, intergenerational ties, and social solidarity
- Revitalize schools and neighborhoods
Senior's Well-Being
Among its key commitments, the foundation embraces initiatives that enhance the quality of life and dignity of seniors, including:
- Palliative care
- Alternative housing to institutional living
- Support for caregivers and respite services
- Valuing seniors’ capacities and experience
- Assistance for low-income seniors (food, transport, housing)
Poverty Reduction
To fight poverty, the foundation takes action on multiple fronts. On one hand, it supports projects and organizations that address the root causes of poverty to help break its cycle. On the other hand, it backs initiatives that aim to alleviate the effects of poverty, including support for essential services such as food banks. The Sibylla Hesse Foundation supports the following initiatives:
- Temporary housing centers
- Food security
- Material support
- Social integration support
- International aid
Arts and Culture
What would life be without culture? Recognizing culture as a fundamental right – not a luxury – the foundation is dedicated to ensuring everyone can experience and celebrate culture, such as:
- Music
- Appreciation of the French language
- Literature and theatre
- Visual arts
