On May 2, Prince George residents tuned in to a nation-wide first-of-its-kind fundraising event to help non-profits struggling through COVID-19.
The Stay-at-Home Gala, hosted locally by the Prince George Community Foundation (PGCF), was viewed by hundreds and brought in $53,360, more than double its original goal of $25,000.
This week, the PGCF distributed grants up to $5,000 to 11 local charities from the successful fundraiser in order to help with COVID-19 response efforts and pay for necessary needs and/or upgrades during an unprecedented time.
Groups have requested funds for items such as personal protective equipment, cleaning and sanitizing materials, technical services, tents and other supports for those most vulnerable.
“One of the things that we’ve heard repeatedly from our community is that, as a result of COVID-19, there are greater demands for a variety of support services,” said spokesperson Mindy Stroet in a news release.
“For many, the pandemic is not the only challenge happening in their lives. COVID is an additional stressor – emotionally, financially and otherwise – and the need for help may be stronger than ever.”
The grant recipients, and what the money is going towards, are as follows
- BC Cancer Foundation - Patient Comfort Fund
- Cassie & Friends - Juvenile Arthritis Support
- Kidney Foundation - Support for Patients
- P.E.E.R.S - Outreach & Food supplies
- Prince George Elizabeth Fry Society - COVID Support
- Prince George Hospice Society - Support for limited gatherings outdoors
- PG Therapeutic Riding Association - Horse Care
- Salvation Army PG - Canopy Cover - Pivoting to work under COVID 19
- Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation - 2 ambu-airway management trainers
- Uniting Northern Drug Users - Drug user support services
- YMCA of Northern BC - Senior Connection Support
The PGCF created its Emergency Response Fund as a result of the gala’s generosity.
To date, the Foundation has distributed emergency funding totalling more than $425,000 through its local ERF and the national Emergency Community Support Fund.
For more information, you can visit the PGCF’s website.
