FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way Halton & Hamilton participating in new Federal Emergency Community Support Fund
More than $2 million in funding available for local charities supporting COVID-19 response
Halton & Hamilton, Ontario (May 20, 2020) – United Way Halton & Hamilton (UWHH) today announced they will provide an additional $2.4 million to support local agencies responding to the impact of COVID-19. ($1.2 million in Halton and $1.2 million in Hamilton.)
The funding comes through a new partnership between United Way Centraide Canada, Community Foundations of Canada, and the Canadian Red Cross, funded through the Government of Canada’s $350M Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF). This national effort aims to support vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The funding augments the support offered by the pandemic relief fund that UWHH established locally at the start of the crisis.
“Working together with our partners, we will ensure that the Emergency Community Support Fund makes the greatest impact possible for the local community services that need it most,” says Brad Park, CEO of United Way Halton & Hamilton. “We’re grateful for this important investment by the Government of Canada.”
UWHH has been keeping a pulse on local social service needs since the pandemic began, already investing more than $250,000 in 24 local programs through its COVID-19 Emergency Fund and the New Horizons for Seniors Program, funded by the Government of Canada. The Prime Minister of Canada initially announced the Emergency Community Support Fund on April 21, 2020. It is part of a broad series of emergency response measures by the Government of Canada.
“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,” said The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. “With today’s announcement, the Government of Canada will be there for them so they can continue to be there for Canadians.”
UWHH is currently accepting applications for grants from the ECSF. Funding will be issued on an ongoing basis through July 2020. Charities and community organizations are invited to visit www.uwhh.ca/COVID-19-for-agencies/ for eligibility and application details.
The Emergency Community Support Fund
Funded by
Working Together for Community
Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada and United Way Centraide Canada are pleased to support the Government of Canada’s $350M Emergency Community Support Fund – a vital step forward in our country’s rapid response to COVID-19. We look forward to collectively supporting this effort, collaborating with partners, charities, and non-profit organizations via our respective networks to implement the Fund, and ensuring that rapid relief reaches those that need it most.
For information on how to access the fund locally, visit:
United Way Halton & Hamilton
www.uwhh.ca/COVID-19-for-agencies/
Oakville Community Foundation
Burlington Foundation
Community Foundation of Halton North
Hamilton Community Foundation
www.hamiltoncommunityfoundation.ca/
About United Way of Halton & Hamilton
United Way Halton & Hamilton (UWHH) is committed to leading measurable, impactful change by identifying the most challenging issues in our community, and bringing together people and resources to address those issues. We connect volunteers with local needs, and offer training and operational support to local charities. Along with our network of partners and experts, UWHH conducts research and works with key stakeholders to generate support for the not-for-profit sector. Each dollar raised is invested right back into the community. Today, 202,421 residents across Halton and Hamilton rely on 129 United Way supported programs for life-changing services.
Outside of government, United Way is the largest funder of social service programs and initiatives in Canada.
For more information and to donate visit: www.uwhh.ca
For media inquiries please contact:
Media Contacts:
Brenda Hajdu
Vice President Marketing and Communications
United Way Halton & Hamilton
C: 416-779-5758
