The United Way of Northern BC (UWNBC) has distributed its portion of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF)

Over $508,000 has been given to 23 non-profit agencies throughout the region to help them cope with the effects of COVID-19.

Over two million dollars of funding requests were made to UWNBC.

A majority of the funds were granted to programs addressing food insecurity and mental health concerns, as financial support was provided to organizations who could prove their programs were designed to aid those affected by COVID-19.

“One of the telling things was whether or not they could demonstrate the creation or enhancement of a program based on the pandemic,” explained Trista Spencer, UWNBC’s Executive Director.

Some additional funds will be distributed among the remaining applicants by the end of the month.

Many non-profit agencies are struggling to provide essential services because of the economic downturn that came with the pandemic.

Among the organizations supported:

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern BC
  • Prince George Brain Injured Group
  • Prince George Native Friendship Centre
  • BC Cancer Foundation

“The impact of this funding goes far beyond the dollars being provided as it helps connect the communities across the region with incredibly valuable supports,” said Spencer.

A complete list of ECSF recipients can be found online.