A team of local organizations is helping to support charities as they make their way through the pandemic.
The so-called Co-Investor Table includes the Chatham-Kent United Way, Chatham-Kent Community Foundation, and Canadian Red Cross, focusing on areas such as mental health, poverty, child and partner violence, homelessness, and Indigenous peoples.
In all, 11 agencies are being given some financial support through the second round of the federal government’s Emergency Community Support Fund to help adapt their frontline services for vulnerable residents.
United Way of Chatham-Kent received 22 applications for community programs and services that support vulnerable community members. To date, 6 organizations have been approved for a total of $106,000:
$15,000 was invested in Family Service Kent
These funds will subsidize transportation services to help older adults (55+), persons with disabilities, and low-income families get where they need to be to be so can stay connected to services in the community.
$10,000 was invested in Maple City Centre for Older Adults
These funds will assist the organization with technology and provide the staff with the equipment they need to attend virtual meetings, access on-line resources, and provide online classes or training.
$11,000 was invested in R.O.C.K. Missions
These funds will allow the organization the stability of a paid Operations Manager position, so they can more effectively organize and utilize resources to be the outreach organization Chatham-Kent needs.
$30,000 was invested in Ska:na Family Learning to Centre
These funds will allow the organization to invest in a Case Manager who will strengthen and/or create relationships with education for governments and non-Indigenous organizations; and support the development of mutual respect and understanding.
$25,000 was invested in Big Brothers Big Sisters
These funds will provide “family activity boxes” for vulnerable youth which will give children something to look forward to; therefore, lowering the risks of depression/anxiety due to isolation and not feeling connected and empower the youth to develop their knowledge.
$15,000 was invested in New Beginnings ABI.
These funds will support seniors who are survivors of brain injury or stroke by providing hot meals to members who don’t have either the means or the ability to cook. As well as subsidize transportation, allow the organization to continue guided exercise plans and purchase technology to provide socially distant support.
Chatham Kent Community Foundation is pleased to share an update on the recipients of this second round of funding. To date, 5 organizations have been approved for a total of $82,411:
$18,821 in the Acceptional Riders at TJ Stables
These funds will address the COVID-19 mental health and physical therapy crisis by implementing an increase in private and semiprivate equine therapy sessions with trained professionals.
$15,000 was invested in Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent
These funds will provide an extension for the “Backyard Camp” programing, offering free virtual activities, groups, fun events, and workshops for children and youth.
$15,000 was invested in the You Are Not Alone! program at St. Andrew’s Residence
These funds will add a temporary staff position & supplies to support individuals in isolation due to COVID-19 protocols.
$10,000 was invested in Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation
These funds will support the need for additional staff hours as they look after hospice families.
$23,590 was invested in Blenheim Youth Centre / Tilbury Solid Rock Café
These funds will provide youth in Chatham-Kent the opportunity to engage in after-school recreational and social-skill building during COVID closures from the comforts of their own homes/spaces.