Question Period Note: SUPPORT TO VETERANS’ ORGANIZATIONS

The Government of Canada recognizes that Veterans’ organizations play a critical role in the lives and well-being of Veterans and their families, as well as the communities in which they are located.

• Many Veterans’ organizations are facing unprecedented fundraising challenges due to COVID-19.

• Our Government is committed to supporting these organizations that are doing so much to help Veterans in the midst of a global pandemic.

• Through Bill C-4: An Act relating to certain measures in response to COVID-19, the Government of Canada is providing $20 million to support Veterans’ organizations facing hardship due to COVID-19.

• The details about how these funds will be distributed are being finalized. All funds will be provided to Veterans’ organizations by December 31, 2020.

BACKGROUND – SUPPORT FOR VETERANS ORGANIZATIONS

Bill C-4, An Act relating to economic recovery in response to COVID-19, which received Royal Assent on October 2, 2020, provides $20 million to support Veterans’ organizations. These funds will provide organizations with much needed resources to cover some operating expenses such as rent, insurance, heat and lights, so they can continue to support Veterans and their families.
Veterans’ organizations contribute to the well-being of Veterans and their families, along with the communities in which they are located through commemorative initiatives. These organizations are playing a vital role to support Veterans in need during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in areas like homelessness.

Many of these organizations rely almost exclusively on fundraising activities and gifts from donors. However, the effects of COVID-19 and nation-wide restrictions have caused events and fundraisers to be cancelled. Donations have decreased substantially. Without these revenues, many Veterans’ organizations are struggling to maintain operations and are at risk of closure.

Work is being finalized to allocate the funds by December 31, 2020 to ensure that Veterans’ organizations have the ability to continue operating, and carrying out critical support to Veterans and their families.
 

None