Joint News Release – Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada and United Way Centraide Canada
For immediate release
Ottawa, May 19 2020 – The Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada and United Way Centraide Canada today launched calls for applications for the new Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF). The Fund is a new $350 million investment by the Government of Canada to support charities and non-profit organizations serving vulnerable populations who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Community organizations can apply starting today.
The funding, which was initially announced on April 21, 2020 by the Government of Canada, is a much-needed boost for community-based organizations who have seen demands for their services increase dramatically since the start of the pandemic.
The Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada and United Way Centraide Canada look forward to continuing to work together to support locally-led efforts in the fight against COVID-19 in communities from coast to coast to coast. Together, the organizations are working to ensure that rapid relief reaches those that need it most.
Quick Facts:
- The Canadian Red Cross Emergency Support for Community Organizations will be delivered through two main programs:
- Preventing Disease Transmission Training and Equipment Program for non-profits, registered charities, and qualified donees
- More information on the programs through Canadian Red Cross, can be found on redcross.ca/communityorganizations or by calling 1-866-221-2232
- Community Foundations of Canada, and community foundations across Canada, will support :
- Granting programs for registered charities and qualified donees. More information on how to apply is available on the Community Foundations of Canada website.
- United Way Centraide Canada, through its local United Way Centraide members, will support:
- Granting programs for registered charities and qualified donees. Some local United Way Centraides may work with non-profit organizations to deliver local services. More information on how to apply is available on the United Way Centraide Canada website.
Quote
“Canadian charities and not for profits are always there to help you, in your time of need. 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 Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
Media Contacts
Canadian Red Cross
Canadian Red Cross English Media Line: 1-877-599-9602
Canadian Red Cross French Media Line: 1-888-418-9111
Community Foundations Canada
Geneviève Vallerand, Communications Director: gvallerand@communityfoundations.ca
United Way Centraide Canada
media@unitedway.ca or media@centraide.ca
For information about the second round of ECSF funding please see our most recent statement and our ECSF initiative page.
