2020: A Challenging Yet Rewarding Year

As we look back on this past year, we recognize that 2020 was a challenging and unforgettable year. The charitable sector faced unprecedented challenges, yet our generous donors rose to the occasion. With the help of our amazing supporters, we were able to grant almost $1.3 million back into our community to support some of the most vulnerable citizens in Abbotsford. We were honored that our donors trusted us, the Abbotsford Community Foundation, to manage their gifts, ensuring the timely distribution of funds to where they were needed most. Our donors were there when it mattered, and we make the same commitment to be there for them. Together, we build a stronger, more caring community.
We are excited to share the substantial impact our donors’ generosity had on our community in 2020 and present 2020 by the numbers….

• A total of $128,644 was awarded through our Smart & Caring Community Grants fund to local charitable organizations that support kids and families at risk including more than $9,000 donated directly to the Starfish Backpack program.
• $88,500 in Agricultural Enhancement Grants were awarded to projects supporting innovative new technologies within the agriculture industry.
• $17,000 was awarded in Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants – in partnership with the City of Abbotsford and the Vancouver Foundation – funding small scale projects that reduce social isolation. Some of the successful projects included Sewing Masks, Christmas Cheer for Seniors and Yoga for a Healthy Community.
• $107,275.20 was provided as immediate relief for local charities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic through the Abbotsford COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund.
• A further $315,040 was granted to local organizations in support of their COVID-19 responses to our most vulnerable citizens through the Emergency Community Support Fund, a partnership between the Government of Canada, Community Foundations of Canada and the Abbotsford Community Foundation.
• $122,340 was granted through the Investment Readiness Program, providing funds to local social enterprises that contribute to solving pressing social, cultural, and environmental issues.
• $162,852.84 was granted to organizations close to the hearts of our donors, including $10,000 to support animal welfare from the Mary Wakefield Animal Welfare Fund.
• $330,000 was awarded in scholarships and bursaries through our Student Awards Program to students graduating from Abbotsford secondary schools.

We could not do have done this without you! Thank you for investing in your community to make a lasting impact for generations to come. Interested in making an impact on our community in 2021? Click here.