Revolutionizing Women’s Health

While the IWK is often recognized for its work in children’s health, its mandate has always included women. Now is the time to bring women’s health to the forefront.

Despite progress in many areas, women’s health remains under-researched, underfunded and under-prioritized. Working alongside the IWK and our donor community, the IWK Foundation is committed to increasing awareness and understanding around women’s health.

We are taking bold steps to ensure women across the Maritimes and beyond feel seen, heard and prioritized.

We are advocating for gender health equality regionally, nationally and internationally.

We are on a mission to change and equalize health care and research for all women.

An Opportunity to Share Your Story

Group of four diverse women smiling together, with the IWK Foundation logo in the top left corner.

In July 2025, the IWK Foundation launched a first-of-its-kind regional survey to better understand women’s health experiences across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.

The results will help inform a groundbreaking study to explore awareness, perceptions and lived experiences of Maritime women, and provide actionable data for change.

Learn more: iwkfoundation.org/womenshealthsurvey

A Bold Partnership with the Halifax Tides FC

A female soccer player with a ponytail, wearing a purple and white jersey, holds hands and smiles with a young girl in a white T-shirt with a podcast logo on it during a match or event at a soccer stadium.

The IWK Foundation is proud to be the founding charitable partner of the Halifax Tides FC, a member of Canada’s first-ever professional women’s soccer league.

This partnership is the first of its kind in Canada, extending beyond the pitch with a shared goal of driving awareness and inspiring action for women’s health.

“Like the Halifax Tides, we are champions for women. It takes a community to raise women up and supporting professional women’s sport is a powerful way to create lasting opportunities for future generations of women. Women's health is a critical issue, and we are proud to join forces to create large scale change.”

- Jennifer Gillivan, President & CEO, IWK Foundation.

The Orchid Women’s Health Initiative: Shining a Spotlight on Women’s Health

Five women standing behind a large check at an IWK Foundation event, with the check for over $731,000, dated October 5, 2024, and made out to IWK Foundation.

With compassion and commitment, the Orchid Women’s Health Initiative is shining a spotlight on women’s health in Nova Scotia and beyond. By bringing attention to the unique health needs and challenges women face, they are not only raising awareness but also driving meaningful change.  

In 2024, the Orchid Women’s Health Initiative partnered with the IWK Foundation to ensure the IWK has the tools and technology needed to deliver the exceptional gynecological care women deserve. Thanks to the tremendous dedication of the Orchid Gala organizing committee, sponsors, and supporters, the IWK Gynecology Clinic now has new specialized pieces of equipment, including ambulatory towers, procedure chairs and tables, and an ultrasound system.  

This is a powerful step toward a healthier future. Together, we are shifting the conversation around women’s health care and research.

Sparking Conversation through The Fifth Wave

A young woman speaks into a megaphone surrounded by a group of diverse people, some with their arms raised, at a rally or protest, with overlaid text about healthcare bias and women.

In collaboration with the Halifax Tides, the IWK Foundation has launched a podcast, The Fifth Wave: Curing the Healthcare Bias Against Women.

This podcast explores the overlooked and misunderstood aspects of women’s health, highlighting systemic gaps, personal stories and expert insights.

Visit iwkfoundation.org/thefifthwave to learn more and listen.