Canada Post Community Foundation/Fondation Communautaire de Postes Canada

The Canada Post Community Foundation, established in 2012, is a registered charity operating independently of Canada Post. Its mission focuses on positively impacting the lives of children and youth across Canada by supporting local charities, initiatives, and school programs. The foundation supports projects with a focus on health, education, and community issues, emphasizing a grassroots approach.

Mission and Impact

The foundation aims to make a difference by supporting small, often underfunded projects that directly benefit children and youth up to age 21. It contributes to a wide range of initiatives, including literacy programs, youth outreach services, and projects supporting Indigenous youth.

Funding and Grants

• Project Grants: These range up to $25,000 and are designed to increase the capacity of organizations by creating or expanding projects and services.
• Signature Grants: Worth $50,000 each, these grants support the overall work and mission of national organizations. Notably, there is a specific Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Signature Grant available for regional, local, or national organizations.

Grant Application Process

A volunteer group of Canada Post employees reviews applications and recommends them to an independent Board of Trustees, using a point system to decide which projects receive funding. Organizations referred by Canada Post employees receive extra credit in the scoring process.

Financial Impact

Since its inception, the Canada Post Community Foundation has provided significant funding to various initiatives across Canada. It has distributed over $14.8 million to more than 1,300 projects nationwide, as of recent updates. However, another report mentions that it has provided $13.5 million to over 1,100 initiatives.

Annual Fundraising Campaign

Each year, the foundation launches a fundraising campaign to support children's programs. The campaign includes the sale of a special stamp designed to symbolize the foundation's mission to help young Canadians reach their potential. The stamp, along with customer donations, grassroots fundraising, and employee payroll deductions, contributes to the funds raised. 100% of these funds are directed to local communities.

Recognition and Management

The foundation is registered with the charity registration number 801839010RR0001. Despite being connected to Canada Post, it operates at arm's length, maintaining independence in its operations and decision-making processes.