Round 2 of Funding Available for Local Charities

Friday, 9 October 2020 12:58

Local charities can now apply for the second round of funding from the Canada Emergency Community Support Fund through the Oxford Community Foundation and United Way Oxford.

OXFORD COUNTY - The Oxford Community Foundation and United Way Oxford are continuing to support local charities through the Government of Canada's Emergency Community Support Fund.

This weekend they announced an additional $85,000 and $116,000 respectively that will be going to support local agencies. Executive Director of the Oxford Community Foundation Louise Wardrop says this vast national effort is a second round of funding to support vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19.

“As infection rates start to rise again, ongoing support is vital in the fight against COVID-19. Local charities and non-profit organizations are pillars in our community. For over six months, they have been working diligently 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.”

Executive Director of United Way Oxford Kelly Gilson says local charities need any support they can receive right now.

“Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, many of our local organizations have been working tirelessly to provide emergency support of all kinds – in particular, to individuals, families and communities experiencing continued or heightened vulnerability. Demand for their services has increased dramatically and has stretched their resources. We know that our investments over the past 6 months have made a difference in many lives, and we are pleased to be able to administer this additional funding to local organizations as they continue to carry out their work over the coming fall and winter months to ensure that no one is left
behind.”

A first round of funding was disbursed through the community foundation network across Canada in June and July. Oxford Community Foundation and United Way Oxford awarded more than $530,000 to eleven organizations in Oxford County.

Starting today, Oxford Community Foundation and United Way Oxford will begin accepting applications.

The deadline to submit an application is October 30, 2020. 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 United Way Oxford at www.unitedwauyoxford.ca and Oxford Community Foundation at www.oxfordcommunityfoundation.org.