Calgary, Alberta, Canada
November 3, 2020
Fundraising is tough. For rural-based charitable and not-for-profit groups, this may be even more true in light of COVID-19. Many small communities were hit particularly hard as events and get-togethers, crucial to generating support, were cancelled this year.
With the completion of the random draw in the Canada’s Farmers Grow Communities (CFGC) program, supported by the Bayer Fund, 66 winning charities and not-for-profits were selected to share $165,000 in funding to strengthen their communities—each receiving a $2,500 grant to apply to a project or program that will enhance the lives of its rural residents and help grow their community.
“Rural communities across the country and the farm families and residents who keep them strong are critical to our agricultural business,” said Trish Jordan, senior business partner, government and industry affairs with Bayer’s Crop Science division. “We feel fortunate we can offer this timely support and work with farmers across the country to help identify those in need within their communities. There is never a shortage of good causes and we know the money is put to good use for the benefit of many.”
Participation rates have risen considerably over the past several years, which points to both interest among farmers in giving back to their communities, and the significant need among charitable and community groups. First introduced in 2012, the 2020 CFGC program received just over 900 farmer applications and charity suggestions, consistent with year-ago entries.
The program this year received many suggestions from farmers about how local groups in their communities could benefit from the grants, with community improvement projects; fire and health organizations; and recreation and sporting activities garnering the most support.
Farmers living and working in the Maritimes, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and Northeastern B.C. had from mid-January to the end of September to submit
their entries by visiting the Canada’s Farmers website and completing an online application form.
To read more community stories or gather additional information about Canada’s Farmers Grow Communities visit www.canadasfarmers.ca or follow on Twitter @CanadasFarmers.
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