More funds are coming to support vulnerable people during COVID-19.

"As infection rates start to rise again in communities across the country, ongoing support is vital in the fight against COVID-19," Myra Peters, Winkler Community Foundation Executive Director, says.

The Altona Community Foundation (ACF), Morden Area Foundation (MAF) and the Winkler Community Foundation (WCF) are among a number of organizations in Canada receiving funds to grant out through a partnership with the Community Foundations of Canada, United Way Centraide Canada and the Canadian Red Cross from the Government of Canada's $350 million Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF).

"Organizations are able to apply for any project that shows how they've adapted to continue operating in the time of COVID-19," ACF Vice President Loren Braul explains. "It's important for these programs to operate, but there may be additional costs associated with doing that... to have more space for people to attend in person, investing in technology for people to participate remotely, increasing your cleaning regimen, the programs are being affected in a variety of different ways."

Starting October 5, foundations will have an additional $30,000 in funding available.

"Local charities and non-profit organizations are pillars in this community," Peters says. "For over six months, they have been working tirelessly to support those who need it most but the reality is, they’re struggling with increased demand at the same time as revenues have decreased."

The Emergency Community Support Fund was initially announced on April 21 as part of a broad series of emergency response measures by the Government of Canada. A first round of funding was disbursed through the community foundation network across Canada in June and July.

The deadline to submit an application is October 30, 2020.