Local Charities report they are still struggling to raise funds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Community Foundation Grey Bruce recently released the results of a survey of local charities and notes a grant program is currently available.
A release says 64 local charities responded to the Foundation’s survey about organizational health, human resources, and the ability to fundraise.
About a third (34 per cent) of organizations said they have only been able to maintain less than 25 per cent of their
fundraising compared to the previous years.
22 per cent reported they were able to maintain 75 to 100 per cent of their fundraising goals.
42 per cent said operational funding was their top need. Program grants were second in ranking overall.
The survey found, of the local organizations that have used government support and other forms of COVID-19
relief over the past year, 41 per cent have utilized wage subsidies and 24 per cent utilized the Emergency Community Support Fund administered by Community Foundation Grey Bruce and the United Way of Bruce Grey.
Other comments made by respondents included the challenges of technology for the organizations and their clients, increased operating costs of program delivery, donor fatigue and struggles with engagement with the community during the pandemic.
Meanwhile, local organizations can apply for a community grant until April 15th.
The Foundation says for this intake only, the allowance for operational support for projects has been increased to a total of 25 per cent of the budget. Visit www.communityfoundationgreybruce.com to access the online application form.
