Community Impact Grant

The Community Impact Grant is our signature Canadian giving program

Our various giving streams are designed to help charities make a positive and sustained impact in their communities.

These grants are administered under the auspices of our charitable owner, Benefact Trust.

Congratulations to our 2024 Community Impact Grant Recipients

Agape Table Inc.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Agape Table has provided nourishment, comfort, and support to Winnipeg’s vulnerable populations, addressing food insecurity with dignity and respect. Its mission is to create a safe haven through essential food programs, fostering community and compassion. The Free Bagged Breakfast Program serves over 1,000 individuals daily, Monday to Friday. It supports diverse groups, including seniors, students, newcomers, and marginalized communities. By redistributing two million pounds of excess food annually, the program also promotes sustainability and environmental stewardship, reflecting Agape Table’s commitment to hope, dignity, and empowerment.

www.agapetable.ca

Boys and Girls Club of Saint John Inc.

Saint John, New Brunswick

The BGC of Saint John provides a safe place for youth to grow, overcome barriers, gain confidence, and develop important life skills. They offer a host of free programs to support young people including recreational sports, youth drop-ins, tutoring, and more. The Kid Food Nation Program is a 41-week nutrition program dedicated to helping kids and their families develop vital food skills and increase food security. Community members take part in meal planning, prep-work, and cooking. Graduates receive a cookbook personalized with their own healthy recipes.

www.sjbgclub.com

Christian Direction

Montreal, Quebec

Christian Direction is a community development organization that partners with local congregations and social service agencies to support families in need across Montreal. They operate a food solidarity market, children’s library, urban agriculture programs, and more. The Financial Capacities Program supports young people (12-17 years old) from under resourced communities in Montreal to learn financial literacy and leadership skills. They lead chocolate-making micro enterprises and sell produce from their own gardens to gain business experience. Paired with workshops on budgeting, financial management, and entrepreneurship they grow in confidence and expand their future career prospects.

www.direction.ca

Committee for Innovative Thinking for Youth Inc.

Trenton, Ontario

Committee for Innovative Thinking oversees the Quinte West Youth Centre, a drop-in space for youth aged 10-18. The centre addresses challenges like food insecurity and mental health by offering safe, welcoming environments and tailored programs. The “What’s Cooking” program is a daily initiative running since 2011 aimed at combating food insecurity and teaching youth about healthy eating, nutrition, and life skills. Youth prepare and cook meals together, receive a nutritious meal daily, and learn vital skills like portion control and meal preparation. A community vegetable garden further supports the program by providing access to fresh produce.

qwyc.ca

Common Weal Community Arts Inc.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Common Weal Community Arts creates artistic programming in collaboration with socially engaged artists and Saskatchewan communities in pursuit of an equitable and just society. For over 30 years they have produced projects that are diverse in artistic discipline and approach. The Journaling our Journeys Program is a creative writing program with vulnerable youth often on journeys of sobriety, gender identity, and healing from racism or intergenerational trauma. They will be led by a talented writer through journalling to process challenges, nurture their interests, and improve personal wellbeing.

www.commonweal.ca

Corbeille de Pain Lac St-Louis

Pointe-Claire, Quebec

Corbeille de Pain Lac St-Louis promotes food security through diverse programs that educate and increase access to food for West Islanders including, community kitchen, gardens, and solidarity markets. The Community Kitchens Program fosters food resilience for seniors and low-income households through cooking classes, nutrition advice, financial education for meal planning, and community.

www.corbeilledepain.com

Ecology North

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Ecology North is a leader in public education, with programming focused on five priority areas: climate change mitigation and adaptation, water stewardship, waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, and local food production. The Education in the Classroom and on the Land Program is to engage northern youth, specifically Indigenous youth, in relevant, culturally appropriate, science-based programming that is responsive to the specific, local challenges they face. Ecology North will collaborate with local Indigenous leaders and school boards to develop environmental science resources to provide youth with the necessary skills to pursue education and careers in the environmental conservation space.

ecologynorth.ca

FED Urban Agriculture Society

Victoria, British Columbia

FED is a community-focused organization advancing food security and urban agriculture since 2013. Through innovative programs, it transforms underutilized urban spaces into productive gardens, connecting communities with fresh, locally-grown produce while fostering self-sufficiency and resilience. The FED Community Harvest Initiative focuses on three pillars: food access, garden creation, and education. It will distribute 200 fresh food boxes to families, establish 4 community gardens to increase food-growing capacity, and host 4–6 workshops for marginalized groups, promoting hands-on learning and access to fresh produce.

www.get-fed.ca

The Gaia Project

Fredericton, New Brunswick

The Gaia Project’s goal is to equip the next generation with the knowledge and tools needed to build a more sustainable future. Their team of educators deliver hands-on, project-based classroom activities, enabling students to identify and address real-world issues related to climate and conservation. The Climate Mindset Program is designed to respond to the growing issue of eco-anxiety in children. Workshops will focus on defining eco-anxiety and teaching coping strategies including promoting environmental action to help manage eco-anxiety. This approach aligns with recommendations from the Mental Health Commission of Canada and is developed in collaboration with clinical counsellors.

thegaiaproject.ca

Galiano Conservancy Association

Galiano Island, British Columbia

The Galiano Conservancy Association (GCA) is dedicated to land and wildlife conservation, sustainable food production, and environmental education. It has become a regional leader in promoting environmental stewardship, reconciliation, and sustainable agriculture through various programs. The Intergenerational Knowledge Sharing program focuses on enhancing land-based skills and environmental stewardship for families on Galiano Island. Partnering with First Nations and Knowledge Keepers it engages low-income families, youth, adults and seniors through various workshops – food production, composting, etc. This fosters intergenerational knowledge sharing and community connections.

galianoconservancy.ca

Greater Trail Community Skills Centre Society

Trail, British Columbia

The Greater Trail Community Skills Centre Society empowers rural communities through workforce development, training, and poverty reduction programs. It supports low-income individuals and equity-deserving groups, fostering inclusivity, equity, and economic empowerment in a safe, welcoming environment. The Roots to Table project is a food security initiative for low-income households, combining gardening, food preservation, and community cooking. Participants grow food with provided supplies and workshops, learn preservation skills for year-round access, and join weekly sessions to prepare affordable meals. The program fosters self-sufficiency, practical skills, and community connections.

skillscentre.ca

Home Again Furniture Bank

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Home Again collects and redistributes gently used furniture to neighbours who need it most. This includes people who have experienced loss, seniors, new Canadians, those coming out of the foster or shelter system, previously incarcerated individuals, and young families. The Delivering Hope and Possibility Initiative expands their work to reduce the waitlist and support more people in need. Ensuring the continued delivery of beds and other life-changing furniture to 100+ homes.

www.furniturebank.org

Kids Kottage Foundation

Edmonton, Alberta

Kids Kottage Foundation provides 24/7 crisis prevention and intervention services for infants and children up to 10 years old in Northern Alberta. As one of only three children's crisis nurseries in Canada, it offers safe shelter, trauma-informed support, and family resources, helping caregivers navigate crises and build stable environments. The Kids Kottage Crisis Line operates 24/7, 356 days a year, as the first point of contact for caregivers in distress. Staff assess risk, provide trauma-informed support, and offer two main services: intake for children at imminent risk who require shelter and referrals with follow-up support to connect families to resources that ensure safety and stability.

kidskottage.org

Kitikmeot Heritage Society

Cambridge Bay, Nunavut

Pitquhirnikkut llihautiniq (Kitikmeot Heritage Society) means learning through culture and is exactly what this organization is dedicated to. Revitalizing Inuit culture and language by developing programming and resources immersed in Inuinnait values, beliefs, direction, and ways of knowing. The Elders in Training will learn from the current Elders-in-Residence and receive mentorship to someday take on the role. The current Elders represent the last generation of Inuinnait who were raised to adulthood on the land and are among the most fluent carriers of the language and culture.

www.kitikmeotheritage.ca

The North Grove Society

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

The North Grove is a dynamic community hub in the heart of Dartmouth North, one of the city’s most challenged communities. Their Family and Community Food Centre offer programs and space for people to learn and connect through family support, food, and friendship. The Good Food Meal Kits provides local people in the community with prepared Vegetarian/Halal pre-portioned meal supplies to ensure healthy and robust meals. The rotating meal kit recipes are well-balanced and delicious, allowing families to learn the core skills of cooking and preparing meals together.

www.thenorthgrove.ca

PEI Family Violence Prevention Services, Inc.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Family Violence Prevention Services is a community volunteer organization dedicated to the eradication of family violence through advocacy, prevention programs, and the provision of quality services to empower and support those who have been impacted. The ASPIRE Program assists women (and their children) from all walks of life, including those who are marginalized, struggling with mental health issues and or suffering through poverty. They assist clients with childcare, transportation, financial services, health services, legal aid, employment services, counselling, safety plans, emergency shelter, second stage housing, and more.

fvps.ca

Quest Outreach Society

Vancouver, British Columbia

Quest exists to disrupt cycles of food insecurity through access to healthy and affordable food. By collecting and redistributing quality surplus food through five non-profit grocery markets across Vancouver, Quest food programs operate on principles of dignity, sustainability, and inclusion. Through the Food Recovery and Redistribution Program, they partner with food suppliers to provide community members in need with a diverse and nutritious selection of food including fresh produce. Clients enjoy a stigma-free grocery store experience, with a variety of choices to improve food security.

www.questoutreach.org

Rainbow Refugee Association of Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Rainbow Refugee is a grassroots registered non-profit and charity dedicated to advocating for, supporting, and sponsoring LGBTQI+ refugees seeking resettlement in Nova Scotia. The Rainbow Community Food Hub is a 6-month project aimed at improving food security for LGBTQ refugees and newcomers to Nova Scotia. The program combines cooking classes, nutrition workshops, and community meals to create a supportive environment where participants can learn vital skills, make connections and celebrate their heritage. This program provides newcomers a safe space to gain confidence, strengthen bonds and engage in meaningful social activities.

www.rainbowrefugeens.com

St. Thomas Anglican Church

Winnipeg, Manitoba

St. Thomas Anglican Church has served Winnipeg's Brookland and Weston communities, providing support through spiritual guidance and social programs. Its mission focuses on inclusivity, stewardship, and creating a Christ-centered platform for fostering community well-being and resilience. The Kreative Takeout Meal Program launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide meals and crafts to families. Starting with 11 families, it now serves 73+ families weekly with over 300 meals and 40 crafts. The program also offers teen activities, grocery support, and essential supplies like school items, baby products, and hygiene kits, addressing evolving community needs.

www.stthomasweston.ca

Truly Alive Youth & Family Foundation

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

TAYFFI is a Black-led charity dedicated to creating barrier-free access to civic engagement and community leadership for racialized and equity-deserving groups. They offer a range of programs including culturally relevant counseling, business training, family support, and youth mentorship. The Senior Connect Program is designed to empower seniors from Black, racialized, and Indigenous communities through healthy cooking classes, digital literacy workshops, fitness sessions, and cultural talent showcases. By engaging seniors in these enriching activities, the program enhances their physical and mental health which also strengthening community connection.

trulyalivefoundation.org

Vancouver Food Runners

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver Food Runners responds to the unfortunate disconnect between the fact that 58% of all food produced in Canada is wasted or lost each year, while 1 in 5 households in B.C. are food insecure. The Tech-Powered Food Recovery to Increase Equitable Food Access Program rescues food from partner businesses and uses an agile volunteer network to distribute food to smaller distribution sites across the city to ensure ease of access for food insecure residents who may find it difficult to travel due to cost or disability.

www.vancouverfoodrunners.com

Victorian Order of Nurses – Ontario Branch

London, Ontario

OSNP nutrition programs meet the nutritional needs of school-aged children experiencing food insecurity, while incorporating educational links to food systems and community building. The Equity & Culture in School Meals Program will procure healthy food items in bulk that are reflective of diverse cultures (e.g. dragon fruit or naan bread) and distributing them to participating schools as part of their daily/weekly snack offerings. The menu enhancements will help to ensure hungry children are well nourished while also encouraging appreciation of different traditions and foods. Food literacy resources highlighting the items will be developed in partnership with knowledge keepers from different cultures.

osnp.ca

Vision of Hope Resource Centre

Brampton, Ontario

Vision of Hope empowers marginalized communities by addressing challenges faced by youth, seniors, and newcomers. Through education, health and well being initiatives, VOHRC promotes equity, reduces isolation, and builds community resilience. The Digital Inclusion for Empowered Seniors project enhances digital literacy for 100 seniors, helping them access online services, build confidence, and reduce isolation. Interactive workshops and mentorship by tech-savvy youth foster vital skills and community engagement.

www.vohrc.com

York Region Rose of Sharon Services for Young Mothers

Newmarket, Ontario

Rose of Sharon provides support and educational services in York Region for prenatal and parenting young women aged 14-29 years. Since 1985, they have given young parents the opportunity to work towards their goals in a supportive, learning-centered environment. The Living & Learning Together in the Kitchen Program addresses one of the most urgent concerns for young parents - the cost of food and diapers. Young mothers will learn how to make easy family-friendly meals on a budget with monthly cooking classes. They will also receive free family care packages of groceries, baby food, diapers/wipes, hygiene items and clothing.

roseofsharon.com

Youth Haven

Barrie, Ontario

Youth Haven supports at-risk youth aged 16–24 offering emergency shelter, life skills training, and advocacy. For over 35 years, it has provided a safe, supportive space where vulnerable youth can access housing, counselling, and resources to build independence and stability. The Life Skills/Nutrition Program equips youth with practical skills for daily living and independence. Participants engage in workshops focused on financial literacy and household management. The program also fosters resilience by teaching youth how to maintain a clean-living space and prepare for employment or further education, while addressing food insecurity with nutrition education and access to healthy meals.

youthhaven.ca

Youth Now on Track Services

North York, Ontario

Youth Now On Track Services (YNOT) is dedicated to empowering low-income families and youth with the resources they need to thrive. Supports include education programs, community involvement, mentorship, and employment training. The Innovate and Lead – Youth Entrepreneurship Program is designed to empower vulnerable youth aged 14-16 with essential business and leadership skills. Participants will have the opportunity to develop, pitch and launch their own mini-business ventures in a structured environment. They will engage local businesses, retirees, and community members to build a robust network of mentors and resources.

ynotservices.org

Woman hands some clothing to a person off- camera

About the Community Impact Grant

A young man crouches down outside to pick up some litter

What is it?

The Community Impact Grant is a grant program dedicated to providing support for registered Canadian charities and non-profits.

From 2017 to the end of 2024 Ecclesiastical will have distributed over 500 charitable grants totalling $5 million to charities both large and small in support of transformational services that help communities across Canada to thrive.

Who is Eligible?

The Community Impact Grant is national in scope. It is open to applicants that are:

Registered Canadian charities as defined by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) that are able to provide a charitable tax receipt for the grant amount.
Will use the grant to fund a specific program taking place in Canada that is sustainable beyond the period covered by the grant.

We welcome applications from registered Canadian charities with a mission that aligns with Ecclesiastical’s values and deeply rooted commitment to helping those in need and supporting our communities to thrive.

We are unable to consider applications from:

You must be a current registered charity in Canada and the project must take place in Canada.

The following exclusions apply:

Non-registered or de-registered charitable organizations,
For-profit organizations or ventures,
Issue advocacy groups, political organizations, labour organizations, or service clubs,
Grant-making institutions and foundations,
Educational institutions (primary, secondary, college, university),
Recreation or sports teams,
Fundraising event, annual funds, galas, and other special event fundraising activities,
Single individuals,
Retrospective or deficit funding/debt retirement,
Most capital (infrastructure) projects,
Organizations that discriminate,
Applications made within one year of a previous grant being approved or before and existing grant is acquitted

Out-of-focus man puts his arm around the shoulder of another person

The Grant application period is now closed.

You can sign up to be notified for future grant giving initiatives using the link below.

Play Video

Past Recipients

In 2023, we proudly awarded a Community Impact Grant to 19 registered charities across Canada.

Hear from some recipients about how the grant has been transformational for their communities.

See all the past recipients

Giving Map

Through our various giving programs, we support Canadian charitable organizations who are making a positive and sustained impact in their communities, from coast to coast.

Explore our Giving Map

The Community Impact Grant program includes three other streams of giving:

These grant programs are open to registered Canadian charities whose mission align with Ecclesiastical’s deep-rooted commitment to helping youth, marginalized and underrepresented people and making a measurable impact on our communities.