Central Alberta charities struggling as Canada Post strike drags on

“The strike has also severely disrupted the ability for charities to receive donations and communicate with supporters, jeopardizing their critical work in communities across Alberta.”

In Jones’s words, while the UCP respects the bargaining process, it believes the federal government, “must use every tool at its disposal and take immediate action to end this strike.”

Erin Peden, executive director at the Red Deer-based Community Foundation of Central Alberta, says that while her organization doesn’t take a direct stance on the strike, she does agree it’s having a major impact on charities and donors.

“When donors are making the choice to give at this time of year, it’s in direct correlation to what the tax credit will be on the other side. With the tax year ending Dec. 31, people want their donations to be received and receipted within the year,” Peden explains.

If a strike causes a donation to be received past Dec. 31, 2024, the community foundation, or any registered charity for that matter, is legally required to issue a tax receipt that would have to be filed the following tax year. This has ramifications on people’s current-year tax returns, she says.

Peden says while there are multiple workarounds, those are not attractive to all donors.

“Most charities can accept donations online, but not everyone trusts putting their credit card information online due to the risk of identity theft,” she says.

“As well, for those who typically write multiple cheques to local charities, but don’t want or have time to drive around dropping them off in person, we can be a one-stop shop for them. If you write the community foundation a cheque for the total amount, and tell us which charities you wish to receive the money and the amounts, we can distribute it.”

The foundation has also had to cancel cheques it’s already mailed out for charities who have been awaiting grant money from the foundation — money that goes toward creating programs for clients.

“We’re willing to do whatever it takes to work with donors and charities to make sure the money gets to where it needs to go,” Peden adds.

Central Alberta Humane Society also shared this week that it is struggling with its Giving Tree Campaign as the strike situation continues to pose challenges.

While it continues its mission of providing crucial care to animals in need, there are certain ways the community can help.

Through its campaign, the organization is primarily looking upgrade its inventory of stainless steel rolling carts, kennel supplies, and durable toys, as well as clinic tools like an in-house urinalysis system and IV pumps, plus better cleaning machines, and enclosures suitable for cats and guinea pigs.

You can help by donating through cahumane.com, by phone at 403-342-7722, or in-person at 4505 77 Street. The shelter is closed Dec. 25, 26 and Jan. 1.

The shelter also has a 24-hour secure mailbox for cheque donations located at the main entrance.

by Josh Hall | @Vancan19

Central Alberta charities struggling as Canada Post strike drags on

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