Applications are now open for almost a quarter-million dollars in funding for local charities supporting the community’s COVID-19 response.
The Abbotsford Community Foundation (ACF) announced this week that it has $221,000 to provide for pandemic-related initiatives, which can range up to a $20,000 grant.
“This is a vital step in the fight against COVID-19,” says Andrea Senft, Board Chair of the Abbotsford Community Foundation. “Local charities and non-profit organizations have been working tirelessly to support those who need it most right now. This additional funding is a much-needed boost to their efforts. We’re looking forward to flowing funds quickly to ensure no one in our community is left behind.”
The ACF has formed new partnerships with Community Foundations of Canada, United Way Centraide Canada and the Canadian Red Cross. The organizations are all receiving funding through the federal government’s $350 million Emergency Community Support Fund, whose goal is help support the country’s most vulnerable populations.
Justin Trudeau initially announced the federal funding on April 21, as part of a broad series of emergency response measures.
“Canadian charities and not-for-profits are always there to help you in your time of need,” said Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. “But the COVID-19 pandemic is bringing real challenges to these important organizations. With today’s announcement, the Government of Canada will be there for them so they can continue to be there for Canadians.”
The ACF began accepting applications on Tuesday (May 19). The grants can be used to cover staffing or resources needs, purchase assistance and more. The funds will be issued on an continual basis through July 2020, and application details and eligibility details can be found on the ACF website.
“At Community Foundations of Canada, our purpose to ‘relentlessly pursue a future where everyone belongs’ has never felt more important than it does right now,” said Andrea Dicks, Community Foundations of Canada President. “We’re grateful for the leadership of local community foundations like the Abbotsford Community Foundation, who have been at the forefront of local response efforts since the pandemic was declared.
“Thanks to the Government of Canada’s contribution, our network will be able to unlock even more local impact for organizations serving vulnerable groups, helping us set the stage for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities.”
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