The Parksville Qualicum Community Foundation (PQCF) has awarded more than $39,000 to 13 local charities and not-for-profit organizations.
More than 30 guests attended the May 11 annual general meeting, the first in-person occasion since 2019, including Parksville Mayor Ed Mayne and Qualicum Beach Mayor Brian Wiese, according to a news release by the foundation.
PQCF connects donors with causes, enabling the foundation to invest in people and projects by assisting local charitable organizations that make the community stronger in the near and long-term.
“PQCF wishes to thank community members from Deep Bay to Nanoose Bay, as well as partnering foundations for their support and donations over the past year,” said president Len Townsend. “It is a great privilege to support the local community, and the foundation can only succeed with the donations we receive.”
Highlights of funding allocated include: Arrowsmith Search and Rescue, for two much-needed titanium rescue stretchers and support toward the development of French Creek Eagle Sanctuary and Nature Park.
READ MORE: Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation opens 2 funding grants for spring 2022
Annual Grant funds were also awarded to a range of local community social services and arts programs, senior centre activities, local food growing and childrens’ sports programs.
In addition, two educational organizations received $2,000 in funding from the Parksville Qualicum Foundation Springford Family Foundation, presented by Clarice Springford.
This spring, the Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) program allocated $40,00 to 14 local individuals to help bring their ideas into fruition. The spring and fall NSG programs provide approximately $9,000 to the local area annually, according to the release.
Special thanks to local marketing business Motiontide Media for providing expertise on spreading the foundation’s message to the community. Motiontide also donated over $5,000 to the organization.
Visit the PQCF website to learn more about Grant Recipients, ways to donate, and funding opportunities.
Since inception in 1999, the foundation has distributed more than $330,000 to support local organizations. It serves the area incorporating Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Qualicum First Nation, RDN Areas E, F, G, H and Lasqueti Island.
— NEWS Staff, submitted