Emergency Community Support Fund

Joint statement from Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada, United Way Centraide Canada

The Government of Canada’s $350M Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF) is a vital step forward in our country’s rapid response to COVID-19. As Minister Hussen has noted, “The COVID-19 crisis is having a real and significant impact on all Canadians. Today’s announcement will help ensure that if Canadians need the support of a community organization, it will be there for them.” The Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada and United Way Centraide Canada applaud the federal government’s move to support our country’s most vulnerable populations.

We look forward to collaborating with partners, charities, and non-profit organizations via our respective networks to swiftly implement the Fund in communities from coast to coast to coast. Together, we will work to ensure that rapid relief reaches those that need it most, and that no one is left behind. The new Fund will provide a much-needed boost to organizations on the frontlines, while we also continue our efforts to secure the funding and support required for the stabilization and recovery phases ahead.

Applications for the Emergency Community Support Fund in Chatham-Kent were made available Tuesday, May 19 on ckgives.ca. Organizations looking for more information on the various funding streams and eligibility requirements are asked to visit ckgives.ca/ecsf. All eligible applicants must email the filled out the ECSF Authorization and ECSF Budget documents as well as filling out the ECSF survey linked on the site.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to all the Canadians who have given so generously during this time. We encourage those who are able to do so to continue their generous support to the charitable and not-for-profit sector they continues to support Chatham-Kent and actively steps up in the fight against COVID-19.

 

The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
“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.”

 

For people wanting to signing-up for volunteer initiatives, make a donation the Chatham-Kent COVID-19 Community Response fund or requiring help can visit ckgives.ca.

 

 

"The Foundation is very proud to be working with Community Foundations Canada and our local partners in this collective effort to flow the funds provided by the Government of Canada to the most impacted populations in Chatham-Kent.”

Ruth Hook, Chair, Chatham Kent Community Foundation

“We are thankful to the government for its support during this challenging time. We are pleased to be working alongside our community partners that provide vital services to individuals who are vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19. I am truly honoured to be working in such a giving and caring community.”

Cathy Cabral, Canadian Red Cross

 

 

“When we collectively work together, we can ensure that there are services out there to help people in this community and to prevent duplication or fracturing of existing supports - By working together, we can ensure that forgotten areas in our community are not left behind and we are better prepared for the community’s rapidly emerging needs.”

Steve Pratt, United Way of Chatham-Kent