Emergency Community Support Fund applications accepted throughout October
United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington and the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area are once again accepting funding applications for the Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF), according to a release from the United Way, dated Monday, Sept. 28, 2020.
The Government of Canada first announced the $350 million ECSF on April 21, 2020. According to the release, the initial disbursement of funds saw $1.23 million granted to local charities (42 programs totalling $817,295 were funded through United Way KFL&A and 29 programs totalling $413,720 from the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area).
“Charities and non-profit organizations are at the heart of our communities, helping the most vulnerable Canadians during the COVID-19 crisis,” said The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. “The Government of Canada is pleased to support these organizations through the Emergency Community Support Fund so that they can continue their invaluable work.”
Now, The Government of Canada is releasing the balance of the $350 million Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF) in a second round of funding. As with the initial round, funding will be administered in collaboration with United Way Centraide Canada, Community Foundations of Canada and the Canadian Red Cross. These funds are available to support communities continuing to address the impact of the pandemic.
United Way KFL&A and the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area will both be accepting funding applications from Monday, Oct. 5 to Friday, Oct. 30, 2020. The fund continues to provide financial support to charities and other qualified donees adapting their frontline services to support vulnerable Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the release.
“As infection rates start to rise again in communities across the country, ongoing support of charities is vital to help them continue to provide needed services amidst COVID-19” says Community Foundation Executive Director Tina Bailey. “For over six months, charities have been working tirelessly to support those who need it most but the reality is, they are struggling with increased demand at the same time as costs have increased and revenues decreased. We are thrilled to be able to flow additional emergency funding their way through the ESCF so they can continue to do their good work.”
United Way KFL&A and the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area will collectively receive more than $340,000 from the Fund for distribution into local communities ($180,000 through United Way KFL&A and $164,018 through Community Foundation for Kingston & Area).
“United Way KFL&A is pleased to once again facilitate this important investment into our local communities. Agencies in our community have risen to the challenge of adapting to COVID-19 in innovative, collaborative, and compassionate ways,” said Bhavana Varma, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A. “We have seen firsthand the impact the initial funding has made in our community, but we know the need is still there. These additional funds will allow local organizations to continue their vital work and expand their programming where needed. United Way is grateful for this much-needed support for local residents during this global crisis.”
The ECSF eligibility and application processes for both organizations are very similar. According to the release, both the Community Foundation and United Way have a grant application deadline of October 30. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes and programs that serve the most vulnerable. Both applications will open Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, and all funding will be issued by December 2020.
For more information about the fund, the application process, criteria and frequently asked questions, community members and organizations are asked to visit the United Way and Community Foundation’s website at https://cfka.org/ecsf-round-2/
About the Emergency Community Support Fund
COVID-19 is having a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations in Canada. Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, community-based charities and non-profit organizations have been working tirelessly to provide emergency support of all kinds—in particular, to individuals and communities experiencing continued or heightened vulnerability. Demand for their services has increased dramatically. The Fund is designed to help these organizations carry out their vital work to ensure no one is left behind.
The funding is intended to support frontline community-based service providers who serve vulnerable Canadians, including low-income seniors, women, children and youth, persons with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ2S+ community, refugees, Indigenous peoples and members of racialized communities.
About United Way of KFL&A
United Way works with individuals, organizations and key partners in KFL&A to build and strengthen the community, bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Our vision is a future where people are self-sufficient in a community, where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca for more information.
About the Community Foundation for Kingston & Area
The Community Foundation for Kingston & Area strengthens our community by connecting the generosity of donors with the energy and ideas of people and charities addressing local community needs. It is proud to be a ‘360-degree funder’ providing grants in all areas that enhance our community’s well-being. For more information visit, www.cfka.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter @CFKingstonArea and Instagram @cfkingstonarea.