Less than four weeks in, the Rapid Relief Fund has reached $4.2 million — well beyond the initial goal.
The fund was launched March 21 by the Victoria Foundation, the Jawl Foundation and the Times Colonist with the aim of raising $1 million in one week for COVID-19 emergency relief in the community.
It took less than 48 hours to reach that goal, and the fund is now well on its way to $5 million, thanks to donations big and small from the community, and several donors who provided matching funds.
Dozens of community groups have received money from the fund, providing support for meal programs, rent subsidies, emergency shelters, child care and more. The effects are being felt from Nanaimo to Victoria, and Sidney to Sooke.
More information can be found on the Rapid Relief Fund website, RapidReliefFund.ca, including a page with information on how recipients are using the money.
Organizations looking for money are encouraged to submit information about their needs and the services they offer. The information will help the Victoria Foundation and its community advisers decide where to allocate donations.
HOW TO DONATE
Tax receipts will be issued. If you are open to receiving your tax receipt by PDF, please include an email address with your donation.
• Online: RapidReliefFund.ca
• Phone: 250-381-5532
• Mail: Send cheques (made out to the Victoria Foundation) to RapidRelief Fund, Victoria Foundation, 200-703 Broughton St., Victoria V8W 1E2
The Rapid Relief Fund was created by the Victoria Foundation, the Jawl Foundation, and the Times Colonist to help people in need as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. CHEK Television and Black Press are helping to boost awareness.
