Tuesday September 15, 2020
When the pandemic struck last March, people across the region gave generously to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund – providing $375,000 in emergency grants to charities providing essential services.
Vulnerable residents were fed, sheltered and given access to important services thanks to the support of the community.
“There is still a tremendous need for the public’s support as charities continue to adapt to new practices, create virtual programs, and pay for extra personal protective equipment and cleaning,” said Jennifer DeBues, Director, Operations and Granting at the Community Foundation. “Demand for services is growing, and at the same time, fundraising events like auctions, fun runs and galas have been cancelled and many local charities are struggling to make ends meet.”
This fall, donations to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund will provide grants to eligible applicants through the Vital Community Grants program – supporting the efforts of local charities as they recover from the initial impacts of COVID-19.
The Community Foundation encourages everyone to give generously to the COVID-19 Community Response Fund.
About the Vital Community Grants Program: Operating grants of up to $5,000 will help charities define their “new normal” as they continue to recover from and adapt to changes brought about by the global pandemic. Application deadline: October 16, 2020 @ 5pm. Applications can be made via the Foundation website grant portal.
About the Community Foundation: The Community Foundation partners with donors to make key investments in community vitality, directing funding to projects that support the long-term wellbeing of the City and County of Peterborough. We work to strengthen the charitable sector by connecting organizations with opportunities for learning, development and collaboration. And we promote community knowledge and dialogue around important needs, opportunities and trends, directing additional energy to priority issues in our community.
Photo description: Local volunteers pack emergency food boxes for Kawartha Food Share and Food for Kids. Both organizations received emergency grants from the COVID-19 Community Response Fund last spring. Photo credit: Food for Kids Peterborough