Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Victoria Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation

The Victoria Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation is the charitable arm of the Victoria firefighters of IAFF Local 730. Registered as a charitable foundation in 1996 and rooted in a much longer history of firefighter philanthropy, it channels funds raised by firefighters and community partners to a wide range of local organizations in Victoria, British Columbia. The Foundation focuses on delivering financial, social and physical support to groups that alleviate poverty, advance education, and fund research and care in the medical field.

Acting as a true community grantmaker, the Foundation maintains long-term commitments to several key partners. These include the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund for people affected by fire-related injuries, the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, BC Children’s Hospital and CFAX Santas Anonymous. By supporting these organizations, the Foundation contributes to critical health services, hospital equipment and infrastructure, pediatric care, and seasonal assistance for families in need.

The Foundation’s financial and in-kind support is directed primarily to organizations and initiatives that benefit residents within the City of Victoria and the surrounding area. Funds raised through community events, campaigns and individual donations are reinvested locally, with the organization emphasizing that 100% of funds raised are used within the city. Beneficiaries range from large provincial health charities to smaller community initiatives that rely on firefighter-led fundraising and volunteer involvement.

Beyond longstanding partnerships, the Victoria Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation actively seeks new community partners. Through its “Become a Victoria Fire Partner” call, the organization invites proposals from groups with events, programs or initiatives where firefighters can help, whether through funding, visibility, or volunteer participation. Prospective partners are encouraged to submit information via an online form describing how the Foundation could support their work, allowing the organization to identify projects that align with its charitable priorities.

The Foundation is closely linked to the Victoria Firefighters Association (IAFF Local 730), whose members lead fundraising, governance and community engagement efforts. While the union focuses on representing firefighters in matters of wages, benefits and working conditions, the charitable foundation provides a structured vehicle for their long-standing culture of altruism and community service. Together, they enhance public safety while also investing financial resources back into the community they protect.