Prime Minister Justin Trudeau before his daily press conference about federal assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. (The Canadian Press)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

much needed help

Over $500K in federal funding offered for Nanaimo-area charities

May 20, 2020 | 5:50 AM

NANAIMO — More money is coming to help the Nanaimo community recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Nanaimo Foundation and United Way Central and Northern Vancouver Island have both received money to be dispersed from the federal Emergency Community Support Fund.

The Nanaimo Foundation will provide more than $167,000 with the United Way handing out $360,000 to the areas within the Regional District of Nanaimo.

“Local charities and non-profit organizations have been working tirelessly to support those who need it the most right now,” Nanaimo Foundation executive director Laurie Bienert said in a release.

“We’re looking forward to flowing funds quickly to organizations serving vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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The fund was first announced on April 21.

“More than ever, people at risk and those most vulnerable to the health, social, and economic impacts of COVID-19 are turning to local charities for help to cope and recover,” United Way Central and Norther Vancouver Island executive director Signy Madden said.

This is just the latest amount of money to be dispersed by the organizations.

The Nanaimo Foundation was a recipient of donations from a star-studded concert held in April, while the United Way was placed in charge of hundreds of thousands of dollars for seniors, those experiencing homelessless and other vulnerable populations.

Applications can be made to the organizations online.

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