The donation from The Co-operators will be directed towards COVID relief in communities across the country

GUELPH, ON, May 4, 2020 /CNW/ - The Co-operators Group Ltd. announced $200,000 in funding to support Canadians who are most vulnerable and impacted by COVID-19. This contribution is in addition to the financial services co-operative's annual campaign that in 2019 raised over $675,000 through employee and corporate contributions.

The $200,000 will be distributed to 28 local United Way Centraides where The Co-operators has corporate operations, reflecting its commitment to support the resilience and well-being of local Canadian communities.

At a time when physical distancing has added complexity and challenges to ensuring vulnerable and elderly Canadians have access to much-needed assistance and support, this funding will help United Way Centraide build community capacity to deliver their important programming.

"Across Canada, non-profits, charities and the communities that they serve are facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic," says Rob Wesseling, President and CEO, The Co-operators. "To help enhance the resilience of Canadians and our communities, we are pleased to provide United Way Centraide with this donation to support people and organizations on the ground, who are addressing these unprecedented challenges head-on."

"Now more than ever, it is critical that we all work together to protect the most vulnerable in our communities and we're thankful to The Co-operators for their generous support," said Dan Clement, President and CEO, United Way Centraide Canada, "The Co-operators has been a long-standing and valued partner. Through this additional gift we will work to ensure the most vulnerable have access to life's essentials and that community partners and agencies can continue to do their vital work in local communities across the country."

About The Co-operators:

The Co-operators Group Limited is a Canadian co-operative with more than $47.3 billion in assets under administration. Through its group of companies, it offers home, auto, life, group, travel, commercial and farm insurance, as well as investment products. The Co-operators is well known for its community involvement and its commitment to sustainability. The Co-operators is ranked as the Corporate Knights' #1 Best 50 Corporate Citizen in Canada and listed among the Best Employers in Canada by Kincentric (formerly AON). For more information, visit www.cooperators.ca.

About United Way Centraide:
Since 1919, United Way Centraide (UWC) has been dedicated to creating opportunities for a better life for all Canadians in local communities across the country. United Way Centraide Canada (UWCC) was founded in 1939 and provides national leadership and support to a federated network of United Way and Centraide offices serving more than 5,000 communities across Canada. Together we are a national network of local community builders, working to alleviate the conditions of the most vulnerable today and building stronger, more prosperous communities for all.

SOURCE The Co-operators