Airdrie charities and non-profits have not experienced a significant decline in donations despite the recent recession.
The Airdrie Food Bank’s 2010 numbers are similar to last years’.
June and July produced slight increases in donations, said Lori McRitchie, executive director at the food bank.
“Eighty per cent of our donations still come at Christmas time,” she said.
Christmas is when most businesses have food and funding drives for charity groups.
“We haven’t been in a position where we’re out of food,” she said.
The food bank also received $5,000 from the new Sobeys which opened in July.
Certain types of charities appear insulated from the recession, something Al Middleton chocks up to consistent giving.
“We’ve lost some and gained some,” said Middleton, executive director at Dynamic Churches International. “I don’t sense that the economy has really hurt us here in Canada.”
Middleton said his organization provides funding to missionaries overseas and said it’s important to maintain consistent support for them.
“If the economy did go bad, they’d be in an awful mess,” he said.
Some Airdrie organizations have not felt setbacks during the recession, in fact, they’re doing better than in years past.
In 2009, Stephen’s Backpacks Society donated 1,100 pairs of shoes to needy Alberta children and in 2010, that number rose to 1,500.
“It’s always a struggle because you are trying to improve,” said Jim McPhee, president of the society. “We’re fortunate to have a donation through a grant.”
The group purchased backpacks with a grant and will ask local schools to participate in the program.
Not all charities have been as fortunate, however. The Airdrie Community Choir, now in its 25th year, has had to more than double its yearly admission from $75 to $160 for an adult membership.
The group has been forced to think creatively with fundraising and have begun playing more concerts and selling chocolate bars to raise more money for their organization.
“I think it’s significant for us,” said Bev Ayles, vice chairperson for the choir. “We’re hanging in there like everyone else.”
