COQUITLAM, B.C., April 8, 2021 – Coquitlam is rolling out the next phase of grants to support community organizations with pandemic-related expenses.
As of today, the City is again accepting applications through its Community Support and Recovery Plan (CSRP) Grant Program, which offers up to $10,000 to support pandemic-response programs in Coquitlam provided by community groups, and up to $5,000 to replace lost revenue for registered not-for-profits operating primarily in Coquitlam.
Supporting the Community Through Challenging Times
The CSRP grants offer short-term relief to local organizations that provide programs and services to improve quality of life in Coquitlam and that have struggled with reduced revenue and resources during the pandemic.
To date, Coquitlam has distributed $160,000 in grants to 23 organizations and not-for-profits – about half for pandemic response and half for revenue replacement. The funds have helped address issues including homelessness, food security and safe sport and art activities for youth, and have also helped organizations that serve marginalized populations, support arts and culture, or provide many other much-needed services for Coquitlam residents.
This new round of CSRP Grant applications will be accepted non-stop until either July 15, 2021 or the funds are depleted. Groups may apply to one or both of the two grant streams:
- Revenue replacement grants of up to $5,000 are available to support existing registered not-for-profit organizations that operate primarily in Coquitlam and have lost anticipated revenue during the pandemic due to cancelled events, fewer program registrants or decreased funding from other sources.
- Pandemic response grants of up to $10,000 are available to support local not-for-profits and other community groups that are developing projects or adapting existing programs that benefit Coquitlam residents affected by the pandemic, or that otherwise mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 in the community. These grants may be used for salaries and wages, but not ongoing pre-existing operational costs such as rent or utilities.
Submitting Successful Grant Applications
Applying for a CSRP Grant does not guarantee funding. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis by a staff committee and assessed against these and other eligibility criteria listed in the CSRP Grant Application and Support Guide posted at www.coquitlam.ca/csrpgrant:
- Organizations with current City funding agreements are not eligible.
- Detailed financial information and post-grant reporting will be required of all applicants.
- Priority will be given to applicants that clearly and fully describe how they meet the criteria of their selected grant stream.
- Funding will be limited to initiatives that serve Coquitlam residents. Regional programs may qualify, but funding will reflect only the demonstrated Coquitlam benefit.
- Projects involving fundraising or other activities charging fees higher than before the pandemic are not eligible.
Questions may be directed to communitygrant@coquitlam.ca.
City’s COVID-19 Plan Supporting Community Recovery
Introduced in spring 2020, Coquitlam’s COVID-19 Community Support and Recovery Plan is a multi-phased recovery strategy made up of programs and initiatives to support all facets of the community through the pandemic. Launched in the spring 2020, the CSRP provides targeted immediate and long-term support for businesses, residents and the not-for-profit sector. A wide variety of CSRP initiatives were introduced in 2020, with more rolling out throughout 2021. Information about the program and supports is posted at www.coquitlam.ca/csrp.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- www.coquitlam.ca/csrp: Details about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is supporting non-profits, businesses and residents through the pandemic;
- www.coquitlam.ca/spirit: Free activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to stay engaged; and
- www.coquitlam.ca/covid19: City service updates and COVID-19 health resources.
Stay up-to-date about City news and service changes by:
Media contact:
Graham Stuart
Manager, Corporate Planning
City of Coquitlam
604-927-3918
gstuart@coquitlam.ca