A LIFELINE FOR THOSE IN NEED
- 22,672 people turned to Celiac Canada for guidance and support – because of you, we were there.
- 2,421 calls and emails to our Help Desk connected people with expert advice when they needed it most.
- 1,241 newly diagnosed individuals joined our program, receiving critical resources for their gluten-free journey.
MAKING GLUTEN-FREE LIVING EASIER
- 570 meal plans downloaded, empowering people to confidently maintain a gluten-free diet
- 1,100 people signed up for our Food Service Guide, helping long-term care facilities safer for our most vulnerable community members
ADVANCING RESEARCH
- Released the results of a landmark 20-year follow-up study on celiac disease in Canada
- 4 international research presentations that share our knowledge with the global community
- 2 James A. Campbell Awards support future research breakthroughs
ADVOCATING FOR CHANGE
- 27,000 petition signatures pushed for tax fairness for gluten-free food
- 14 meetings with policymakers helped advocate for better support and recognition
- 40 dietitians trained to improve disease management
Thank You!
During 2024, more than 2,000 individuals donated to Celiac Canada, and over 200 volunteers dedicated their time to making a difference. Together, they contributed thousands of hours to supporting our mission. Many of our volunteers provide guidance to those newly diagnosed, while others service on our Board, working committees and local chapters – helping to extend our reach across Canada. Bottom line: we’re a small but mighty team, and with your support, we continue to improve diagnosis rates and enhance the quality of life for those living with celiac disease.
Thank you!
Melissa Secord, Executive Director
MORE 2024 HIGHLIGHTS
In 2024, we released our State of Celiac Disease in Canada study, based on responses from 7,500 Canadians. This study is set to transform how celiac disease is diagnosed and managed. Its findings will drive policy changes to improve quality of life, food safety, and access to gluten-free options across the country.
We developed several new resources: a first of its kind children’s food guide, a university guide, and a food service training guide for hospitals and long term care.
Working together with researchers at McMaster University, we supported a groundbreaking study that provides new insight into how celiac disease begins, proving that the intestinal lining (epithelium) actively triggers the immune response to gluten—not just immune cells, as previously believed. By using an advanced lab-grown model of the intestine, researchers were able to pinpoint the exact mechanisms behind this reaction, paving the way for targeted treatments beyond the gluten-free diet. With celiac disease rates doubling in the past 25 years and no cure available, this discovery is a major step toward developing new therapies that could improve the lives of millions.
HOW WE GET IT DONE
Mighty Work on Few Dollars.
We are thankful for Celiac supporters who gave generously in 2024, increasing annual giving by 25% to $818,000. Total revenue exceeded $1 million for the first time! Our popular and growing group of monthly donors increased their group revenue by 48%.
WHAT'S NEXT FOR CELIAC CANADA IN 2025?
We’re excited to share what’s on the horizon as we continue to drive meaningful change for the celiac community. With a new three-year strategic plan guiding our efforts, we’re committed to making a real impact in the years ahead. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
Expanding Support and Improving Diagnosis:
– We’re launching a pilot program for older adults with celiac disease, that will deliver critical information to them to to help them stay as healthy and strong as possible and support their ability to live at home independently for longer.
– To improve diagnosis rates among ethno-Canadians, we’ll be launching a 3-year research and awareness campaign.
– We’re increasing our engagement with Canadian physicians, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to recognize and diagnose celiac disease earlier.
Food Service & Industry Collaboration:
– We’re proud to launch and distribute our new Food Service Guide in partnership with Conagra Brands Canada, equipping food service providers with the knowledge to safely serve gluten-free meals.
Making Celiac Information More Accessible:
– To better support diverse communities, we’re improving our resources in other languages, ensuring more Canadians have access to accurate, life-changing information.
Relieving the Burden of the Gluten-Free Diet:
– We’re advocating for a flat refundable tax credit of $1,000 per adult and $600 per child to replace the current incremental tax regime. This will help offset the financial burden of the gluten-free diet, making it more affordable for all.
Advancing Research and the Path to a Cure:
– We’re identifying new partnerships that could accelerate progress toward a cure and significantly benefit the celiac community.
– To expand the quality and capacity of research, we’re seeking new funding partners to increase J.A. Campbell grant sizes.
– We’ll encourage more researchers to enter the field of celiac disease, driving new discoveries and innovation.
– We’ll also monitor and translate the latest research advancements and actively seek opportunities for Canadians to participate in clinical trials, helping to fast-track progress toward better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Improving Our Programs:
– We’re committed to enhancing our existing programs, ensuring they continue to meet the evolving needs of the celiac community with greater impact and accessibility.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re making 2025 a year of growth, advocacy, and hope for everyone affected by celiac disease.
