Dear AFP Greater Vancouver Members,
Your Government Relations Committee is pleased to share with you an update about recent advocacy work on behalf of the membership base.
Tariffs, BC Budget 2025 and calling on government to provide unrestricted funding for our sector:
Last week saw the release of Budget 2025, with the Province primarily providing support for those in our sector addressing housing. However, this was the first time since 2022 that no new unrestricted funding was announced. This is particularly concerning at a time when demand for services is continuing to rise paired with a sharp decline in year over year giving. Our sector is also not immune to tariffs from the United States, which will likely further discourage donations and impact costs related to service delivery.
In anticipation of Budget 2025, I reached out to Ms. Phillip, the Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits, to continue to support the sector through investment in its Community Prosperity Fund. However, we did not receive a response.
After the announcement of Budget 2025, I also reached out to Minister Ravi Kahlon, who is leading the Province’s response to the unjust tariffs from our southern neighbours, with a further call for investment in the Community Prosperity Fund.
Federal Election 2025 and AFP Canada’s response to Tariffs:
With Mark Carney’s election as Leader of the Liberal Party, there is growing speculation that an election might be called well before government returns on March 24, 2025.
As a reminder, AFP Canada continues to focus on advocating for a dedicated secretariat for the charitable sector. The Canada Government Relations committee is working hard to ensure that our members are heard both in Ottawa and around the country, and has created a resource page for members interested in advocating before, during and after the election.
We also sent a letter on behalf of members to The Honourable Dominic Leblanc and Jenna Sudds regarding the impact tariffs will have on our sector and the urgent need for including the charitable sector in any relief programs from Government in reaction to the tariffs. This letter was also sent to Taleeb Noormohamed, the newly appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs (Canada-U.S.), who will play an important role – until an election is called – in advising Minister Leblanc on Canada – U.S. relations.
What you can do?
- Write to your MLA or to Ms. Phillip, if you believe that the province should continue to commit funding to the Community Prosperity Fund.
- Attend our upcoming (date TBD) webinar regarding the Federal Election.
