Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Saanich Legacy Foundation (SLF)

Saanich Legacy Foundation is a community-based charitable foundation serving the District of Saanich and surrounding area in British Columbia. Active since 1999, it strengthens local communities by providing financial support to grassroots groups, community associations and charities that deliver programs and events benefiting Saanich residents. The foundation both administers its own grant streams and acts as a charitable partner for non‑registered groups that need a qualified donee to manage donations.

SLF supports initiatives across several focus areas: youth leadership and development, arts and culture, opportunities for low‑income residents, and the protection and appreciation of parks, paths and green spaces. Through community partnership grants, endowment funds and special initiatives, it channels donations and bequests from individuals, businesses and other funders into concrete projects on the ground.

The core mechanism is the Community Partnership program, which offers grants typically ranging from $100 to $10,000 for time‑limited projects. Eligible applicants include registered charities, community organizations, non‑profits and certain individual projects primarily within Saanich. Projects are expected to demonstrate strong community benefit, fiscal responsibility and effective management. Preference is given to initiatives that encourage volunteer participation and do not duplicate existing services.

SLF also stewards named funds and thematic grants, such as the Golden Jubilee Endowment Fund, which has supported initiatives like the Transgender Youth Arts Drop‑in at Fernwood Community Centre and queer and trans youth engagement at Oaklands Community Market. The reCREATE Community Grant provides financial assistance so low‑income adults aged 60+ can access municipal recreation programs, reducing barriers to physical activity and social inclusion.

Applications are accepted year‑round and are reviewed at meetings of the Board of Directors. Proposals are assessed on their alignment with the foundation’s mandate, the degree of community involvement, participation of other funding partners, and the applicant’s capacity to manage funds accountably. Matching or challenge grants may be used to leverage additional support from corporate sponsors, service clubs or private donors.

Approved projects must usually begin within 90 days of receiving funds and are required to submit a final report, including complete financials, within 30 days of project completion. One project must be completed, with all reporting obligations met, before a new application from the same recipient is considered.

The foundation’s portfolio illustrates a wide range of supported initiatives: arts-based programs for 2SLGBTQ+ youth, hygiene access for people in crisis through Soap for Hope, equine‑assisted therapy with the Vancouver Island Therapeutic Riding Association, free summer concert series in Saanich parks, conservation and restoration work in Lohbrunner Park, and seasonal support for families affected by violence through the Maxine Davis Christmas Care Project.

By combining grant‑making with charitable partnership services—such as tax‑receipted fundraising, donation processing, and use of platforms like Zeffy—Saanich Legacy Foundation enables both established charities and informal community groups to undertake projects they could not finance alone. Its work contributes to a more inclusive, vibrant and environmentally healthy Saanich.