FGM invites community organizations to apply for grants under the new Emergency Community Support Fund

 

Montréal, May 19, 2020 – The Foundation of Greater Montréal (FGM), through its President and CEO Yvan Gauthier, announced today it will offer grants to fund projects submitted by community organizations, drawing from a $7.2M budget, in order to meet the needs of vulnerable populations across Greater Montréal, who are among the most affected by COVID-19. This announcement is the result of a new fund, created by the Government of Canada in partnership with Community Foundations of Canada, United Way Centraide Canada and the Canadian Red Cross, who will also make their own granting programs available. The Emergency Community Support Fund is endowed with $350M to be distributed across the country. This effort aims to support vulnerable populations affected by COVID-19. FGM is among the 150 community foundations across Canada that are taking part.

“This is a major step in the fight Greater Montréal has to wage against COVID-19,” says Mr. Gauthier. “Local community organizations, which have been deeply affected by the crisis, have also been working tirelessly to support those who need it most right now. We thank the federal government for its commitment and are looking forward to transfer these funds as quickly as possible to the organizations that are helping the most vulnerable in these difficult times”.

The Emergency Community Support Fund was initially announced on April 21 by the Prime Minister. 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. With today’s announcement, the Government of Canada will be there for them so they can continue to be there for Canadians.”, said the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development.

Starting today, FGM will begin accepting applications for funding from qualified organizations. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes, including to cover staffing or resource needs, purchase materials or equipment and more. Funding will be issued on an ongoing basis through the end of July 2020 or until the funds are exhausted. Charities and community organizations are invited to visit FGM’s website for eligibility and application details.

“At Community Foundations of Canada, our purpose to “relentlessly pursue a future where everyone belongs” has never felt more important than it does right now,” said Andrea Dicks, Community Foundations of Canada President. “We’re grateful for the leadership of local community foundations like FGM, who have been at the forefront of local response efforts since the pandemic was declared. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s contribution, our network will be able to unlock even more local impact for organizations serving vulnerable groups, helping us set the stage for more inclusive, resilient and sustainable communities.”

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Source: Foundation of Greater Montréal
For more information: Simon Delorme, Project Manager for Communications, simon.delorme@fgmtl.org