Grant and Funding Programs Offered by VOCM Cares (VOCM)

VOCM Cares Foundation is the charitable arm associated with VOCM in Newfoundland and Labrador. For more than four decades, it has raised funds through radiothons, radio bingo, 50/50 draws, food and clothing drives, and special events, and redirected these resources to charitable organizations across the province. Its mandate is to strengthen communities by supporting initiatives that improve health, education, safety and overall wellbeing.

The foundation provides program funding to registered charities and community organizations working in areas such as youth programming, seniors’ services, health support, mental health, food security, inclusion, arts and culture, and community development. A formal Program Funding stream invites applications, which are reviewed according to available resources and published funding guidelines. Lists of approved organizations are posted by year, demonstrating regular grant-making activity to dozens of beneficiaries.

Through its Program Funding, VOCM Cares supports projects that deliver concrete benefits in Newfoundland and Labrador communities. Eligible applicants are local charities and community groups that align with the foundation’s focus on health, education and safety. Applicants complete an online form, and successful recipients are required to file a final report describing outcomes and community impact, one month after project completion or within a year of approval.

Beyond direct grants, the foundation runs or partners on specific community service initiatives such as the Coats for Kids campaign, Buddy Bears with St. John’s firefighters, the Happy Tree toy drive, the Janeway Patient Support Fund, and seasonal food drives. These programs combine in-kind donations, monetary support and public engagement to assist families, children and vulnerable people.

To sustain its granting capacity, VOCM Cares organizes numerous fundraising activities. Key initiatives include the Lions Club/VOCM Cares Super Radio Bingo, Dial‑a‑Carol Christmas broadcasts, semi-annual 50/50 draws, and special events like dodgeball tournaments and restaurant-based campaigns. Radiothons—both regional and provincial—are also organized in collaboration with partner charities, subject to an application and planning process.

The foundation publishes audited financial statements and periodic impact reports, outlining funds raised, grants distributed and community outcomes. This transparency, along with a public board of directors and clear mandate statement, helps ensure that donations are managed responsibly and that funded programs align with community priorities in Newfoundland and Labrador.