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Foundations giving cash to ease poverty levels in the Tri-Cities

The disbursement of the Community Prosperity Fund, a $25-million pot funded by the provincial government, is being handled by philanthropic foundations, including in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody.

Tri-City groups in need of cash to cut poverty and for social inclusion programs have until June 24 to apply for money.

The three philanthropic foundations in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody are now accepting bids from charities, nonprofits and Indigenous-serving organizations to dip into the Community Prosperity Fund — a $25-million pot funded by the provincial government.

Announced on the first-ever BC Non-Profit Recognition Day last October, the Fund assists with projects lasting up to three years.

Meanwhile, the Coquitlam Foundation recently received two donations from the namesake of its Symington Endowment Fund.

In February, Vivien Symington gave $25,000 and, last month, pledged an additional $25,000 for the Fund, which aims to help kids with neuro-developmental disabilities, youth-at-risk and high-performance gymnasts.

“We are deeply grateful for the continued generosity of Vivien Symington, founder and owner of Club Aviva and Empowering Steps Movement Therapy Program,” said the foundation’s executive director Carol Brodie, in a news release.

“Her generosity is a testament to her dedication to our mission and the well-being of our community.”

Symington was nominated for a 2024 YWCA Women of Distinction Award.


To donate to the Coquitlam Foundation, visit the group’s website.