Helping Keep Food Security Programs Running in High River
13,000+ Reviews | 4.5
★★★★★
Western Communities Foundation
When communities face unexpected challenges, local charities are often among the first to step up and the last to step away.
That's why the Western Communities Foundation launched its new $100,000 Emergency Support Fund earlier this year. Created as part of the Foundation's 25th anniversary, the fund is designed to provide rapid, flexible funding to registered Canadian charities facing urgent and unforeseen circumstances that threaten essential community services. Grants of up to $10,000 help organizations respond quickly when timing matters most.
One of the first organizations to receive support through the fund was Wild Rose Community Connections, a High River-based charity that delivers programs focused on food security, family support, community connection and well-being.
Earlier this year, the organization faced the possibility of losing its FoodConnexx program, a vital food security initiative that helps individuals, families and seniors access nutritious food in a dignified and supportive way. The program rescues surplus food from grocery stores and other community partners, helping reduce food waste while providing food support to those who need it most. According to the organization, FoodConnexx distributed more than 3,000 food hampers in 2025 and rescued nearly 300,000 pounds of food that would otherwise have gone to waste.
As operational pressures mounted, Wild Rose Community Connections believed it might be forced to close its doors. Thanks to the generosity of local donors, community partners and supporters, including funding received through the Western Communities Foundation Emergency Support Fund, the organization has secured the resources needed to continue operating and serving community members for the remainder of the year.
Funding from the Emergency Support Fund is helping cover immediate operational costs, including rent and transportation expenses, allowing food hampers and food security programs to continue reaching those who rely on them.
The Emergency Support Fund was created to help charities respond to situations just like this, whether that's recovering from a disaster, addressing unexpected operational challenges, or ensuring critical programs remain available during periods of heightened demand. The initiative builds on the Foundation's longstanding commitment to creating safe, inclusive and resilient communities where people can live, work and play with confidence.
For the team at Western Financial Group and the Western Communities Foundation, supporting organizations like Wild Rose Community Connections reflects a simple but important belief: when communities need help most, showing up matters.
Pictured above are Western’s own Lisa McKeage, Pam Knight and Krystal Hoover presenting the donation cheque to the Wild Rose Community Connections’ Executive Director Marianne Dickson, helping ensure food security programs remain available to families and individuals across the region.
Together, we're strengthening the communities we call home.
Fast · Simple · Trusted
Ready to Save on your Insurance?
100% Canadian Owned
13,000+ Reviews | 4.5
★★★★★
