September 02, 2026

Tru Charitable Foundation grants $1.3 million to support communities across British Columbia   

 

LANGLEY, B.C. — Tru Charitable Foundation (formerly First West Foundation) has awarded $1.3 million in grants so far this year to charities serving 34 communities across British Columbia, with additional funding to be distributed later in 2026.

This year's grants support organizations addressing some of British Columbia's most pressing challenges, including poverty, food insecurity, mental health, education and social inequality.

"Strong communities are built by organizations that understand local needs and are deeply connected to the people they serve," says Tracy Fortino, Executive Director of Tru Charitable Foundation. "We are proud to invest in the people and organizations working every day to create healthier, more resilient and more inclusive communities. These grants are about more than funding projects—they're about supporting lasting change and helping communities for generations to come."

Granting is the cornerstone of Tru Charitable Foundation's work and is guided by a trust-based philanthropy approach that emphasizes flexible funding and inclusive, accessible granting processes. Established in 1996, the Foundation has awarded more than $15 million in grants to charities supporting the communities served by its primary partner, Tru Cooperative Bank. The Foundation grows its endowments through charitable donations and stewarded investments, creating sustainable funding that benefits communities for generations.

Beyond its grants, the Foundation strengthens the charitable sector by partnering with organizations such as New School of Fundraising and Impact Toolbox to provide learning and professional development opportunities for nonprofit leader

Additional funding will be distributed throughout the year, bringing total 2026 granting to more than $1.8 million, including:

  • $1.75 million through its Tru Cooperative Bank-established endowments, including Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings, and Enderby Financial Community Endowments  
  • $40,476 through named endowments
  • $48,127 through agency endowments

Learn more about this year's grant recipients at Tru Charitable Foundation 2026 Grantees..

Company Information

About Tru Cooperative Bank, formerly First West Credit Union

Tru Cooperative Bank brings together the best of both worlds, combining the strength and stability of a leading Canadian financial institution, and the care and community leadership of a local cooperative. With nearly $21 billion in total assets and assets under administration, approximately 290,000 members, Tru Cooperative Bank offers clear, practical advice and modern banking that’s designed to be digital when it should be, and personal when it matters.

Through its local brands — Envision Financial, Valley First, Island Savings, and Enderby & District Financial — Tru Cooperative Bank has contributed more than $44 million back to local communities while cultivating a nationally-recognized culture shaped by courageous leadership, authentic connection and collective strength. Learn more at trucooperativebank.ca and see how we’re creating a future where everyone can flourish.