Red Cross Canada recently released a PSA, to explain how not-for-profits in your area can access Emergency Community Support funds and/or personal protective equipment training that we are helping to administer on behalf of the Government of Canada. Red Cross has been ultra important during the pandemic.(redcross.ca) The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world. WestCentralOnline talked to the Canadian Red Cross Senior Manager of Emergency Management in Saskatchewan, and he shared some information at the start of May for when it comes to being ready.

Together, the Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada, and United Way Centraide Canada are asking for applications for the new Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF). $350 million will be invested by the Government of Canada to support charities and non-profit organizations serving vulnerable populations who are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Community organizations have been able to apply since May 19th, after the funding was originally announced on April 21st. These funds will serve as a much needed booster for community based organizations that have seen increased demands since the beginning of the pandemic.

These three organizations will look forward to fighting COVID-19 in communities from coast to coast. They will work together to coordinate locally led efforts, to ensure rapid relief reaches those who need it first.

The Canadian Red Cross Emergency Support for Community Organizations will be delivered through two main programs. A granting program for Non-Profits, and a Preventing Disease Transmission Training and Equipment Program for non-profits, registered charities, and qualified donees. Community Foundations of Canada, and community foundations across Canada, will support grant programs for registered charities and donees, and the United Way Centraide Canada, through its local United Way Centraide members, will also supported registered charities and qualified donees, and some United Way Centraides may work with non-profit organizations to deliver local services.

“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.” - The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development.

This program to provide PPE and disease prevention training, is in support of their direct service delivery to those who are most vulnerable to the health, social and economic impacts of COVID-19.

Organizations that would like to apply, need to meet the specific criteria:

• Are registered charities, qualified donees or non-profit organizations;
• Are undertaking direct service delivery to those who are most vulnerable to
the impacts of COVID-19;
• Are incorporated or established in Canada or have a principal registered
office address in Canada;
• Have been in operation on or before December 31, 2019 (preference will be
given to organizations that have been in operation for at least 12 months);
• Regularly dedicate at least 50 per cent of core activities to direct service
delivery;
• Have a governance structure with at least three people on the board,
management committee, etc.;
• Have internal measures in place, such as practices and procedures for
internal controls and accountability; and/or
• Working with clients in low and medium risk environments.

Some organizations will be given preference depending on circumstances such as revenue, and addressing social needs caused by COVID-19. The following criteria:                                            
• Have annual revenues of $1,500,000 or less;
• Undertaking vital direct service delivery or essential supports;
• Addressing a pressing social inclusion or well-being need caused by
COVID-19 through their direct service delivery;
• Supporting vulnerable populations through direct service delivery; and/or
• Have unrestricted cash reserves of less than 20 per cent of their annual
operating budget (as an indication of financial vulnerability).

The deadline to apply was July 7 and has now been extended to July 31, 2020.