Red Deer and District Boys and Girls Club was among organizations to benefit from The Home Depot Canada Foundation’s Orange Door Project that raised more than $1.1 million in December.
The project raised money in support of critical housing and support programs for at-risk and homeless youth in communities across Canada.
Money went to 125 organizations across Canada and $160,000 went to groups in Alberta. The Home Depot Canada contributed an additional $2,000 on behalf of each store to address COVID-19’s impact on charitable organizations.
“This year has been challenging for so many Canadians, and I want to thank all of our customers for their generous donations,” said Pamela O’Rourke, chair of The Home Depot Canada Foundation and company vice-president of merchandising.
“Our charity partners urgently need support which is why 100 per cent of every customer donation stays in the community it was raised to support local at-risk and homeless youth.”
In a November survey of its charity partners, 87 per cent reported that there has been increased demand for services since the pandemic began. Of that group, 80 per cent find it’s more challenging to provide effective services under the current conditions, and 100 per cent feel that donations are needed now more than ever.
Many reported that the vulnerable youth they serve are experiencing increased isolation and that their health and wellbeing have been further impacted.
The Home Depot Canada Foundation has distributed more than $1.5 million dollars in COVID-19 critical response funding for at-risk and homeless youth.