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NRT is part of a ground-breaking new partnership that includes support for the Indigenous non-profit sector.

Recovery and Resiliency Fund provides new support for B.C.͛s non-profit sector

VICTORIA – A new $34-million fund for non-profit groups in British Columbia will provide much-needed support for organizations that were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and continue
to struggle during recovery.

The historic investment of $30 million from Budget 2022 includes an additional $4 million from
Vancouver Foundation. The non-profit sector contributes $6.7 billion to the provincial economy
and employs more than 86,000 British Columbians at approximately 29,000 non-profit
organizations throughout the province.

“Our government recognizes the important work non-profits do in building strength and
resilience in our communities, which is why we have created a Recovery and Resiliency Fund, “said Niki Sharma, Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits. ͞They
have been there for British Columbians during the challenges of the past year, and we will be
there for them through economic recovery.”

A 2021 Vantage Point survey noted that due to the pandemic, 48% of non-profit organizations
have experienced challenges such as reduced revenue, higher operating costs to deliver
services, an increased demand for services and a decline in volunteers and limited financial
reserves to bridge through COVID-19 impacts or to invest in technological infrastructure for a
virtual transition.

The focus of the new fund is to support organizations whose staff, volunteers, programs and
operations have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Funding will fill crucial gaps not
covered by other funding sources, such as gaming grants, with a focus on building
organizational resilience.

Vancouver Foundation and United Way British Columbia will administer the funds. Both
organizations are experienced in delivering multiple grant programs to organizations
throughout B.C. and leveraging funding from other sources to ensure the Recovery and
Resiliency Fund is used for maximum benefit.

The New Relationship Trust, an Indigenous-led funding body, will administer at least $5 million
to support the recovery and resilience of Indigenous communities. Ministry staff are working
closely with the funding organizations to finalize details for application criteria and guidelines.
The fund is anticipated to launch in June 2022. To stay up to date on the fund, interested
organizations can subscribe to Vancouver Foundation at:
https://www.vancouverfoundation.ca/grants/recovery-and-resiliency-fund

Quotes:

Walter Schneider, CEO, New Relationship Trust –

“We are excited to collaborate with and stand beside the Government of B.C., Vancouver
Foundation and United Way in delivering an initiative that advances reconciliation beyond the
crossroads of just talk. A key commitment of reconciliation is the foundational understanding,
knowledge and willingness to meet Indigenous organizations where they are at on their own
journey towards recovery and resiliency within their own contexts. We believe this initiative is
at the vanguard of that commitment.”

Michael McKnight, president and CEO, United Way British Columbia –

“Community-led organizations strengthen vital connections in every B.C. community, but the
COVID-19 pandemic has threatened their operations and survival. This fund will ensure that
community services will be well-positioned to contribute to economic recovery and community
building over the long term. Together with the Province and Vancouver Foundation, we are
ready to support our neighbours.”

Kevin McCort, president and CEO, Vancouver Foundation –

“This partnership will mobilize new funding for a vital sector at a crucial time. Working
together, we͛re eager to bring new innovation to how we support community-led organizations
today while building a strong foundation for their long-term success. That͛s good news for
organizations that do important work throughout B.C. and great news for the communities that
depend on them.”

Learn More:

Contact:

Vivian Thomas
Communications Director
Ministry of Social Development and Poverty
Reduction
250 213-2972

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: news.gov.bc.ca/connect

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