Dozens of local groups and charities are the recipients of funding via grants from the Greater Saint John Community Foundation totalling $360,750.
There are 41 projects from 33 different organizations that have been chosen to receive grants this year through the foundation. They include the Boys and Girls Club of Saint John, the Community Autism Centre Inc, ONE Change, the Crescent Valley Resource Centre, Kids Help Phone, Sophia Recovery Centre, the Saint John School Milk fund and many, many more.
Executive Director of the foundation Kelly Evans says they had $850,000 worth of requests this year which is unprecedented in their history.
“Like any funder in our community often the ask exceeds what we are able to give, and so it becomes very important for our grant-making committee to make very strategic decisions around community impact and strategic investment.”
At a foundation luncheon held at the Lily Lake Pavillion on the eve of their 40th anniversary, the YMCA was presented with a cheque for $35,000 to help with housing needs for Syrian refugees which is part of a fund established by the national Community Foundation organization. President Shilo Boucher says it was a complete surprise when they received the call.
“It’s really gonna go to support our newest families, our Syrian familes, and any housing needs that they have.”
The Community Foundation serves as a trustee of gifts which distributes donated funds. You can find more information about them on their website: www.thecommunityfoundationsj.com
