Fourteen local organizations have received grants totalling nearly $60,000 from the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund.
The foundation is awarding grants weekly to a wide range of local non-profits whose operations have been impacted by the coronavirus crisis. For example, isolated seniors on North Thormanby Island now have access to hand sanitizers and two hand carts to assist with unloading groceries from the water taxi onto the pier, thanks to a grant from the fund.
A grant to the Sunshine Coast Hospice Society is helping to provide additional services to those grieving at this time. “Our COVID-19 strategy has included fielding questions and supporting our volunteers to offer online or telephone grief service,” said Elana Robinson, executive director. “Being unable to fundraise the way we typically would, this grant is making a big difference to our ability to continue offering services.”
The Sunshine Coast Asso-ciation for Community Living has had to adapt to closing its Clubhouse, which is relied upon by dozens of people with intellectual disabilities. SCACL is supporting those individuals by collecting food from the food bank, shopping at local grocery stores, and preparing five meals per week for individuals normally dependent on the Clubhouse for meals and activities. “Many of our client population have an underlying medical condition (diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure); therefore, exposing them to the public puts them at risk,” said Gabrielle Pape, vocational program coordinator.
Since launching the Sunshine Coast COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund in mid-April, the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation has awarded 14 grants totalling $59,241.
“The Sunshine Coast community has been incredibly responsive,” said Manjit Kang, chair of the foundation’s board of directors. “We are so grateful for the support we have received that allows us to make grants supporting local charities.”
To make a donation to the fund, or to apply for a grant, visit the foundation’s web page at www.sccfoundation.com or call 604-741-7360.
– Submitted
