For those who need to slop on some sunscreen this summer, there are a few free sunscreen stations now set up around Vancouver.
The Save Your Skin Foundation, which was founded in North Vancouver, has expanded its network of free sunscreen stations across Canada; they now have five in Vancouver.
"Our sunscreen program started in 2022 when we partnered with medical students in the Atlantics," spokesperson Amy Rosvold tells V.I.A.
While the first dispensers were set up in the Maritimes, the program has come west, and this year includes new locations in Vancouver. The bright yellow stations dispense 30+ SPF sunscreen from Green Cricket, a Canadian company.
The Vancouver dispensers are located at:
YMCA Hotel - 733 Beatty St.
Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre - 1607 E Hastings St.
Little Mountain Neighbourhood House - 1193 Kingsway
Gordon Neighbourhood House - 1019 Broughton St
Grandview-Woodland Community Policing Centre - 1977 Commercial Dr
The locations were chosen in partnership with local groups who can make sure the sunscreen dispenser isn't left empty.
While the program is located at beaches or public pools in other cities, Rosvold notes that the locations in Vancouver will help make sure sunscreen is accessible to everyone.
"We also want to serve families and people in lower-income groups, too," explains Rosvold. "Sunscreen is quite expensive and it's kind of become a luxury item, so we want to make sure low-income people have access to it."
Additionally, she notes people who are heading to the beach are often more prepared for the sun, including having their own sunscreen.
The goal is to cover more of Canada, but a consistent supply system needs to be in place for each dispenser, says Rosvold.
"Our goal is to expand it each year," she adds.
"Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and 90 per cent of skin cancer cases are caused by sun exposure."
