A new grant for charities and organizations advancing gender equality is coming to Wood Buffalo.

Earlier this week, Wood Buffalo Community Foundation announced their participation in a funding program that will supply $40,000 to groups in the region who are working to support women, girls, two-spirit, and gender diverse individuals towards a future grounded in inclusion, equality, and justice.

Applications will be accepted from November 3 to 30 and can be used to pilot new initiatives, support just recovery from COVID-19 or to address long-standing community needs.

Preference will be given to self-led initiatives – projects that are led by the same groups they serve.

“From a lack of representation in political and decision-making positions to increasing wage gaps and economic inequalities and alarming rates of gender-based violence, to name a few of the issues, it’s clear that we have work to do to advance gender equality in Fort McMurray, Wood Buffalo, and across Canada,” said Tony Mankowski, WBCF Chair.

“We know the journey will be a long one but we’re committed to it.”

The funding, provided by the Government of Canada, is part of a five-year initiative to advance gender equality across the country, with WBCF being one of 25 community foundations to take part.

“At Community Foundations of Canada, our purpose is to “relentlessly pursue a future where everyone belongs,’” said Andrea Dicks, Community Foundations of Canada President.

“To create communities of true belonging, we need to advance gender equality across the country. Investing in women is not just the right thing to do, it is the strategic choice.

Funds are expected to be released in January and a full list of requirements and application details can be on WBCF’s website.