In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation announced on Friday they are committing a minimum of $50,000.00 towards immediate support for front line charities in Central Alberta.

“Our charitable sector is being presented with obstacles they could never have imagined,” said Executive Director Erin Peden. 

“It was a decision that was made swiftly and confidently by our board because we know, and we've all said, this is an unprecedented time,” said Executive Director Erin Peden. 

“We are looking at our charitable sector and wondering how on earth they're going to keep up with the demand that is about to be presented to them. We're doing whatever we can to put support in their direction.”

Last week, the Foundation suspended its annual Smart and Caring Grant application process in favour of supporting agencies as a whole that are facing increased demand, with little chance of slowing in the coming weeks. 

At present, $50,000 has been committed in response to the COVID crisis, however, Peden said the Foundation will address needs as they are presented above and beyond the initial commitment. 

“In the meantime, we ask our friends, colleagues and donors to consider contributing to the Red Deer & District Community Foundation COVID Response Fund to help us effectively provide supports where it is needed,” Peden said.  “We will be looking at all areas of need so by donating to the fund, you are putting your support exactly where it is needed.”

She said they are working collaboratively with other community funders such as United Way and Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) to ensure that funds are being directed to frontline non-profit organizations that need it most. 

“Never has there ever been a greater need for collaboration,” Peden said. “We will be communicating openly and regularly with our colleagues to ensure we are creating a blanket of support for Central Alberta.” 

Peden added, "We keep telling each other there is light at the end of the tunnel. None of us know what is on the other side of the tunnel, but we have a better way of getting there if we are heading that way together."

As frontline workers, community supports and other vital services continue to offer support for people in need, they are already often working on stringent budgets with a lot of demand for services. 

"I think the services that we have within this community are so incredible. As we reach out virtually to touch each other, because there's no way we can actually be present with each other, I know that we are going to be able to move forward collectively, and working together."

Those wishing to donate to the COVID-19 Response Fund can do so online at www.RDDCF.ca.