Availability of financial aid

Christian Scientists are happy to pay for the dedicated work of Christian Science practitioners and Christian Science nurses. However, sometimes these bills, especially bills for nursing, can be larger than one can reasonably afford.

In Canada, there are several funds available to help.

The Christian Science National Benevolence Fund

The objective of the CSNBF is to help make Christian Science nursing costs affordable for anyone in Canada who is relying on Christian Science for healing. Funds may also be available if a patient cannot afford the cost of Christian Science treatment or to support any other costs that would dissuade an individual from relying on Christian Science. Inquiries and applications can be made by contacting Secretary, Christian Science National Benevolence Fund, #808 - 35 Church Street, Toronto, ON M5E 1T3.

Ruth Upjohn Fund

The Ruth Upjohn Fund is to benefit elderly and/or incapacitated Christian Scientists by way of assisted living accommodation, health care convalescence, assistance with the activities of daily living and/or other purposes consonant with the spirit and intention of the gift. Applications can be sent to Benevolence Committee, First Church of Christ, Scientist, 196 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5R 2N5. Envelopes should be marked “Confidential”.

Helen Schmidt Fund

The Helen Schmidt Fund is available to send needy Christian Scientists to Sharon House. Funds are limited, and inquiries and applications can be sent to Benevolence Committee, First Church of Christ, Scientist, 196 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5R 2N5. Envelopes should be marked “Confidential”.

Beatrice Hamilton Young Fund

This fund is to benefit senior Christian Scientists in need of financial assistance. Funds are limited, and inquiries and applications can be sent to Benevolence Committee, First Church of Christ, Scientist, 196 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5R 2N5. Envelopes should be marked “Confidential”.

C. R. Vint Foundation

The purpose of the C. R. Vint Foundation is to receive and maintain funds and to apply all or part thereof for religious, charitable, or educational purposes of the Church of Christ, Scientist, its members and associated organizations, within the Province of Ontario. Contact can be made by telephone 905-888-8468, or by mail to #104 – 10761 Woodbine Avenue, Markham, ON L6C 1J3.

All of the above funds can be accessed by application to the addresses given. The office at Sharon House can help with general information and inquiries regarding forms and process.Contact the office Mondays (or Tuesdays when Monday is a holiday) at 416-233-4447. On days when no-one is in the office, leave a message with your name and telephone number, and you will receive a return phone call.