The Parksville-Qualicum Community Foundation has announced that $230,000 has been awarded through the Oceanside Prosperity Fund to 17 local organizations, supporting efforts in poverty reduction and fostering social inclusion throughout the PQB region.
The fund assists community service organizations to obtain vital funding that supports both operational sustainability and project-specific initiatives. The fund offers up to three years of financial support to local community service organizations, ensuring sustained impact and long-term benefits for the communities they serve.
“Demand for this grant program was very high,” said Peter van Dongen, PQCF vice-chair. “We received 29 applications totalling more than $600,000 in funding. This clearly demonstrates the significant need for support within the Oceanside region.”
After a thorough review process, PQCF selected 17 organizations to receive grants.
“These organizations are doing vital work in areas such as food security, mental health, support for Indigenous Elders, and youth and family services,” van Dongen added. “We’re proud to support their efforts to improve the lives of local residents.”
2024 Oceanside Prosperity Fund Grant Recipients (organization, project name, grant):
Balfour’s Friends Foundation (Compassion for Companions) $5,400;
Christ's Church Oceanside (Community Meals and More) $14,000;
District 69 Backpack Program (Backpack Program) $15,000;
Forward House Community Society (Operations) $16,000;
Manna Homeless Society (Foot Care Equipment) $16,000;
Mid-Island Pensioners & Hobbyists Association (Oceanside Community Kitchen Project) $15,000;
Nanoose Community Services (Project Food and Basic Needs) $15,000;
Oceanside Classical Concerts Society (Musical Instrument Lending Program) $14,500;
Oceanside Hospice Society (IT Changeovers and Upgrades) $9,600;
Oceanside Integrated Fitness Society (Without Limits) $15,000;
Oceanside Stroke Recovery Society (Stroke Recovery) $15,000;
Parksville Community Centre Society (Facility Upgrade) $15,000;
PQB Fruit Tree Foundation (MAC Community Garden) $14,000;
Qualicum First Nations (Elders on the Bus) $13,000;
Society of Organized Services (Operating Expenses) $16,000;
St. Stephen’s Community Meals (Community Meals) $6,500;
Wonderful World of Books (Books Distribution) $15,000;
The Oceanside Prosperity Fund is part of a $25 million investment from the Government of British Columbia aimed at strengthening the non-profit sector and empowering communities to make impactful decisions through community foundations like PQCF.
“We are proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to seeing the meaningful difference it makes in the Oceanside region,” said PQCF chair Robert Duncan, noting the funding program aligns with PQCF’s commitment to fostering resilient and inclusive communities by supporting the essential work of local service organizations. The grants provided through the Oceanside Prosperity Fund are a vital lifeline for many local organizations. They enable us to address urgent needs while also laying the groundwork for lasting, positive change in our communities.”
The foundation works with donors to build endowments, grants funds to local organizations and initiatives and brings neighbours together to strengthen community philanthropy. The foundation serves the area incorporating Deep Bay to Nanoose, inclusive of Errington and Coombs.
