Community Social Investment Program
Durham Region offers a quality of life that is second to none, with community supports that promote social inclusion and reduce barriers for all residents. The key to growing our caring community is to invest in it, which is why, in 2020, the Social Services Department developed the Social Investment Framework.
The framework has now evolved into the Community Social Investment Program, aiming to support community agencies providing services that enhance the work of the Social Services department. This new program provides transparent and accountable funding allocations through a streamlined application process that prioritizes equitable and inclusive outcomes.
If you have questions about the Community Social Investment Program, please email funding@durham.ca. For information about funding opportunities for local organizations, please visit our Funding Resources page.
There are three proposed funding streams in the Community Social Investment Program: The Sustainability Fund, Emerging and Emergency Needs Fund, and Capacity Building Fund.
Sustainability Fund |
The Sustainability Fund is a partnership commitment on projects that support the medium-term operational costs of a community organization, such as staffing, rent and utilities. This is a partnership commitment of up to three years, subject to annual approval of the Region’s Business Plans and Budget. |
Emerging and Emergency Needs Fund |
The Emerging and Emergency Needs Fund addresses needs in the community as they arise, such as homelessness, supportive housing, poverty prevention, etc. |
Capacity Building Fund |
The Capacity Building Fund supports organizations to grow their capacity to deliver key programs and services to the community. The Region will fund programs that align with its Strategic Plan and support the health and well-being of the community. Capacity funding will be provided with a preference to leverage community partnerships for future sustainability. |
Service System Manager: The Regional Municipality of Durham is the Service System Manager for Durham region, as selected by the Ontario government. As the Service System Manager, The Regional Municipality of Durham is responsible for responding to local needs and building system capacity within Early Learning and Child Care, Housing and Homelessness, Social Assistance and Integrated Employment Services. The Community Social Investment Program aims to simplify the funding application process for organizations that provide services that relate to the Service System Manager role.
Durham Region Funders Table: The Durham Region Funders Table is a Community of Practice that aims to meet community needs together. This includes ensuring that funding allocations for charitable and not-for-profit sectors are coordinated and informed by local data, such as geography, equity and need. Convened by the Region of Durham, the Funders Table includes United Way Durham Region, Durham Community Foundation, the Region of Durham and local municipalities. The Community Social Investment Program will be developed and implemented in alignment with the Durham Region Funders Table.
Learn more about the Community Social Investment Framework:
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