SURREYCARES Community Foundation on Monday announced it will be provided $525,250 to support local charities in Surrey, White Rock, Langley City and Langley Township responding to COVID-19 as part of an ongoing partnership with Community Foundations of Canada, United Way Centraide Canada and the Canadian Red Cross, funded through the Government of Canada’s $350M Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF).
This vast national effort is the second round of funding that aims to support vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19. SurreyCares Community Foundation is among community foundations across Canada that is taking part.
“As infection rates start to rise again in communities across the country, ongoing support is vital in the fight against COVID-19,” said John Lawson, Chair of SurreyCares. “Local charities and non-profit organizations are pillars in this community. For over six months, they have been working tirelessly to support those who need it most but the reality is, they’re struggling with increased demand at the same time as revenues have decreased. We’re thrilled to be able to flow additional emergency funding their way through the ECSF but we also see the need for stabilization support for the sector, so they can continue their good work in our community over the long haul.”
The Emergency Community Support Fund was initially announced on April 21 by the Prime Minister. It is part of a broad series of emergency response measures by the Government of Canada. The first round of funding was disbursed through the community foundation network across Canada in June and July. SurreyCares awarded $991,148 to34 organizations in the area.
SurreyCares began accepting applications for funding from qualified donees on Monday (October 5). The deadline to submit an application is October 30. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes, including to cover staffing or resource needs, purchase assistance and more. Charities and community organizations are invited to visit the foundation website for eligibility and application details.
Ahmed Hussen, federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, said: “Charities and non-profit organizations are at the heart of our communities, helping the most vulnerable Canadians during the COVID-19 crisis. The Government of Canada is pleased to support these organizations through the Emergency Community Support Fund so that they can continue their invaluable work.”
“At Community Foundations of Canada, our purpose to “relentlessly pursue a future where everyone belongs” has never felt more important,” said Andrea Dicks, Community Foundations of Canada President. “We’re grateful for the leadership of local community foundations like SurreyCares, who have been at the forefront of local response efforts since the pandemic was declared. Working together, SurreyCares has been able to quickly get funding to those who need it most in the area. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s renewed contribution, those efforts will continue and unlock even more support for organizations on the front lines. Our goal is to ensure that no one is left behind.”
