Home - Robert Bosa Foundation

Connecting to Communities

We believe in community building because stronger communities foster a culture of care, connection and continuity. Since 2012, the Robert Bosa Foundation has proudly partnered with grassroots organizations that offer support to underprivileged children, youth and their families.

Community Giving

We work with local nonprofit groups within the community to expand capacity, harness resources, and enable systemic change. The Foundation facilitates discussions in the community to understand current gaps and how to best provide support – whether funding for existing programs or new initiatives.

Community Engagement

We believe that when people know their neighbours, everyone thrives. Our Foundation builds community by creating opportunities for neighbours to connect. Whether through rooftop community gardens, or employee engagement programs – supporting breakfast programs, food literacy programs, or skills-based volunteerism – we believe that we can accomplish great things when we are in it together.

The Issues

Food Security and Food Literacy

In 2016, over 30,000 BC children relied on food banks.
1 child in 5 is at risk of starting the school day on an empty stomach due to lack of access to nutritious food.
In Aboriginal and immigrant communities, the ratio is 1 in 2.

Children in Poverty

1 of every 5 BC children lives in poverty. This figure is higher than the national average.
The highest poverty rates are for recent immigrants, children of Aboriginal identity, children in single parent families, children in visible minority families, and children with a disability.
Over 40% of homeless youth have aged out of Government (Foster) Care.

Social Isolation

1 in 3 people find it difficult to make friends in Metro Vancouver.
1 in 4 people experience loneliness.
When neighbours know and trust each other, streets are safer, and people are healthier and happier.

Addressing the Issues

Food

Food is a connector. Good food is vital for good mental and physical health.

Literacy

Literacy is the foundation of community building.

After School and Holiday Programs

After school and Holiday programs offer a safe place for children when they are most vulnerable.

Entrepreneurial and Employment Skills Training

For vulnerable children and youth, barriers to employment can prevent the opportunity for future success and self-sufficiency.

How To Apply

Eligibility

Looking to apply for support? We partner with organizations and programs that meet the following criteria:
• A non-profit or registered charity
• Focused on improving the lives of vulnerable children
and youth
• Aligned with one or more of our funding parameters
• Located in one of our priority communities
• Able to provide metrics post program

Please note that we are not accepting applications at this time. Please check back again in a few weeks.

Funding Parameters

The following principles are funding priorities for the Robert Bosa Foundation. Organizations that wish to apply for funding must include one or more of the following principles in the application form:
• Community involvement with a focus on community
engagement and volunteerism
• Asset-based approach leveraging community resources
• Addressing the root cause of a social issue
• Grassroots charities with a progressive, innovative
approach
• A holistic approach to problem solving, in particular
two-generation programs.

priority communities

Burnaby New Westminster Victoria Squamish Coquitlam Surrey White Rock Vancouver