Declining Charitable Giving in Saskatchewan: A Generosity Crisis?
The holiday season, traditionally associated with giving and generosity, has brought to light a concerning trend in Saskatchewan: a significant decline in charitable donations. A recent study by the Fraser Institute reveals that Saskatchewan’s charitable giving has plummeted by 30.9% between 2012 and 2022, mirroring a nationwide trend where donations have reached their lowest point in two decades. This decline presents a significant challenge for local charities striving to provide essential services to vulnerable populations. Several contributing factors are at play, including economic pressures on individuals, disruptions caused by the Canada Post strike, and evolving donation methods.
The Fraser Institute attributes the decline in donations to financial constraints faced by individuals. Rising costs of living, stagnant wages, and economic uncertainties have likely reduced disposable income, leaving less available for charitable giving. Jake Fuss, the Fiscal Studies Director at the Fraser Institute, suggests that people’s after-tax income may not be as high as it once was, and their budgets are being stretched thin in multiple directions. This financial strain limits the capacity of individuals to contribute to charitable causes, even if they maintain a desire to do so.
The impact of this generosity gap is being acutely felt by local charities. The Salvation Army, a prominent organization providing social assistance and emergency relief, reports a significant surge in demand for their services. Captain Derek Kerr, a Salvation Army officer, notes that they anticipate assisting 500 to 1,000 more families this Christmas compared to the previous year. This increased demand coupled with declining donations creates immense pressure on the organization’s resources and ability to meet the growing needs of the community. Other organizations, including the Royal Canadian Legion and the Saskatoon Food Bank, are also experiencing challenges in meeting their fundraising goals.
The ongoing Canada Post strike has further exacerbated the situation by disrupting traditional donation channels. The reliance on mail for delivering donation appeals and receiving contributions has been significantly impacted. Captain Kerr states that the Salvation Army’s national donations are down 50% from their target due to the mail disruption. Similarly, the Saskatoon Food Bank has experienced a decrease in mail-in donations. The strike has hindered the ability of these organizations to reach potential donors and collect funds, further complicating their efforts to provide crucial services.
Despite these challenges, organizations are adapting to the changing landscape of charitable giving by embracing digital platforms and alternative fundraising strategies. The Royal Canadian Legion, while acknowledging slightly below-average donations during their recent poppy campaign, saw success through online and tap donations. Chad Wagner, the Saskatchewan Command Provincial Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of embracing new technologies and methods to generate funds electronically. This shift towards online contributions allows for more convenient and accessible donation options for individuals, potentially mitigating the impact of the mail disruption.
The Salvation Army has also adopted a similar approach with their kettle campaign, though they report being one-third short of their fundraising goal with limited time remaining. The Saskatoon Food Bank, while impacted by the postal strike, has witnessed inspiring community support through in-person and online donations. Deborah Hamp, the Food Bank’s Operations Director, notes that people are braving challenging weather conditions to donate in person, while others are actively contributing online. This highlights the resilience of community spirit and the willingness of individuals to support those in need despite prevailing challenges.
Furthermore, Hamp emphasizes the importance of diverse forms of support beyond financial contributions. She encourages individuals to consider volunteering their time and skills as valuable alternatives to monetary donations. This call for broader community involvement highlights the multifaceted nature of addressing social needs and the significance of collective action. While financial donations remain crucial, contributing time and expertise can equally impact organizations’ ability to deliver essential services and support their communities effectively. The current situation underscores the need for both short-term solutions to mitigate immediate challenges and long-term strategies to address the underlying factors contributing to declining generosity. Encouraging diverse forms of support, fostering a culture of philanthropy, and addressing systemic economic inequalities are crucial steps toward building a more resilient and compassionate society.
