Role of Timberkids Charitable Foundation in the funding ecosystem
Timberkids Charitable Foundation is TIMBER MART’s national children’s charitable foundation, created to channel the generosity of independently owned TIMBER MART stores into their local communities across Canada. The foundation concentrates its financial support on local, registered children’s charities rather than large national organizations, aiming to direct funds where a few thousand dollars can make a meaningful, visible difference in the lives of children.
The main funding mechanism is the Dealer Donation Matching Program. When a TIMBER MART dealer donates to a local registered children’s charity, Timberkids matches that donation up to a stated maximum of $5,000. This structure leverages community-level giving by merchants and employees, effectively doubling support for eligible projects and services that benefit children.
General funding priorities and eligibility
Timberkids focuses on organizations that work to improve the health and well-being of Canadian children. The foundation favours inclusive groups that generate grassroots impact and reach a large number of kids. Funding is restricted to registered charitable organizations that serve a broad public rather than individuals or small private groups.
As outlined on the site, Timberkids does not provide funding to individuals or families, groups with clear religious or political agendas or affiliations, organized sports teams, or private schools. By setting these boundaries, the foundation ensures that its limited resources are directed to community-based, non-partisan initiatives that align closely with its mission.
Application process and support
The foundation provides a straightforward application process designed to move funds to child-focused programs quickly. Applicants must confirm that their organization has a valid charitable registration number and meets the foundation’s criteria. They then download a step-by-step application form and submit it through their local TIMBER MART dealer. If the dealer agrees to support the cause, the application is forwarded to Timberkids for review and final funding decision.
Application forms are available in both English and French, reflecting the foundation’s national scope. Once an application is processed, the local TIMBER MART notifies the applicant of the decision, creating a direct connection between local businesses and the charities they support.
Governance and community connection
Timberkids is overseen by a board of directors that includes representatives from TIMBER MART corporate offices, individual TIMBER MART stores, and partner businesses. This governance structure keeps the foundation closely tied to the realities of local communities and retail partners across Canada, while maintaining oversight of how matching funds are allocated.
Through its donation-matching grants and clear eligibility framework, Timberkids Charitable Foundation plays a focused role in Canada’s charitable funding ecosystem, amplifying local philanthropy to improve the lives of children in communities where TIMBER MART operates.