Community Foundations of Canada (CFC) welcomes the Government of Canada’s continued focus on building a more resilient, inclusive and locally responsive economy. Many of the priorities outlined, including supporting communities, strengthening social infrastructure and advancing equitable economic participation, align closely with the work of community foundations across the country.

We are pleased to see the recognition of the charitable sector’s critical role as “an important driver of the Canadian economy, creating well-paying jobs and strengthening the social safety net.” Today, Canadian communities are navigating a period of economic and social uncertainty. Global instability, affordability, labour and housing shortages, and shifting economic conditions are placing increasing pressure on families, local economies, and the organizations that support them. These challenges are being felt most acutely at the community level, where resilience is built, or strained, in real time. The charitable sector is seeing these impacts firsthand and is stepping up to respond by mobilizing resources, partnerships, and local leadership to support communities.

We are further encouraged by the Government’s commitment to modernizing the framework for the charitable sector. This represents an important opportunity to ensure the enabling environment for community-based organizations reflects current realities, supports innovation, and aligns with best practices. There are valuable perspectives across the sector, and collaboration with the Government of Canada will enable a comprehensive assessment and the development of a forward-looking approach that supports community outcomes. CFC, alongside our network, looks forward to engaging in this process.

The Spring Economic Update’s emphasis on inclusive participation, including investments in sport and recreation that expand access for underrepresented groups, also reflects the importance of community level engagement and wellbeing. Initiatives that support children, youth and families, particularly those facing barriers to participation, are essential to building healthy, connected communities.

As implementation of initiatives outlined in the Spring Economic Update move forward, there is significant opportunity to deepen partnerships with community-based institutions that can help bring these investments to life, including community foundations. CFC, alongside community foundations, stands ready to work with the Government of Canada to support effective delivery, inclusive engagement, and long-term sustainability. With strong relationships across communities, community foundations are well-positioned to connect national ambition with local action.

We look forward to working with the Government and partners to advance shared priorities and to support strong, vibrant communities across Canada.