Burlington's Community Support Fund Provides Funding for Innovative Programs and Projects that Foster Community Connections During COVID-19: Applications now being accepted

*Please see below a media release issued by the City of Burlington.Burlington, Ont. — July 14, 2020 — As part of the City of Burlington’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is launching the Community Support Fund. This umbrella program will combine existing funding programs to provide financial support to residents and community groups who want to enrich and connect their communities through sport, recreation, art and cultural experiences during COVID-19.The Community Support Fund temporarily brings together: Love My Hood, the Community Development Fund, The Neighbourhood Matching Fund and the Burlington Arts and Culture Fund. The combined fund will simplify the funding process and make it easier for Burlington residents and community groups to access financial supports and enhance their community’s well-being.The Community Support Fund will help fund a variety of virtual or limited in-person events, programs and projects in Burlington neighbourhoods and communities up to a maximum value of $5000 per application. It is a one-time annual funding program designed to recognize the importance of community during these challenging times. By providing access to funding, the City is looking for innovative ideas to connect and enhance our community.

"COVID-19 physical distancing measures have made it very challenging to connect in-person with friends and neighbours these last few months but we know there is still a great desire in the community to want to help each other and gather, in ways that are still safe and comply with provincial orders. With help from the Community Support Fund, we encourage groups and individuals to get creative and think about programs or projects that will give the community new ways of connecting and support our mental and physical well-being." -- Chris Glenn, Recreation Services Director, City of Burlington

EligibilityThe Community Support Fund is available to Burlington based:

• Informal, unofficial or formal community-based organizations, not-for-profit, grassroots groups, schools and faith organizations
• Individual persons, artists or community champions.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and evaluated monthly by City staff. Proposed projects must:

• Comply with public health and safety measures and any provincial orders
• Demonstrate the goals and outcomes expected from the project
• Explain how the project will benefit the community
• Demonstrate how the funds will be used
• Show how the project aligns with the goal and objectives of the Community Support Fund.

For more information, and to apply for the Community Support Fund, visit burlington.ca/funding.MAYOR MEED WARD'S TAKE:This fund helps our residents and community groups do what they do best: host creative projects that make our city the wonderful place it is while boosting our community spirit. Burlington’s Community Support Fund helps bring those fantastic ideas to life.--*Posted by John Bkila, Mayor's Media and Digital Communications Specialist