Wawanesa Insurance has awarded over $275,000 through its Wawanesa Climate Champions: Local Grants program to 13 organizations across Canada, supporting innovative initiatives enhancing climate resilience.
The grants, launched earlier this year on World Environmental Day, aim to address the growing challenges of climate change by funding local solutions to strengthen communities.
Among the recipients is Holland College in Prince Edward Island, which will use the grant to explore methods for reinforcing buildings to withstand hurricanes. The research will focus on developing practical solutions for high-wind and debris resistance, helping to reduce property damage from natural disasters. Holland College’s project is expected to reshape localized hurricane preparedness practices.
“Through education and demonstration activities, residents will gain access to affordable, climate-resilient solutions, providing better protection against climate-related risks,” said Shawn MacDougall, director of applied research at the college. “At the same time, the academic and research community will gain new insights to further explore climate resilience and adaptation.”
In British Columbia, three organizations—Environmental Youth Alliance, Gorge Waterway Action Society, and Langley Environmental Partners Society—received funding for climate-related projects that engage youth and local communities. The Environmental Youth Alliance will provide volunteer opportunities and education on ecological restoration, while Gorge Waterway Action Society will host workshops for LGBTQ2S+ artists and community members to promote climate adaptation. Langley Environmental Partners Society is focusing on enhancing streamside ecosystems by planting native vegetation and engaging youth in conservation activities.
Wawanesa also supports environmental efforts in Alberta, with a grant going to Environment Lethbridge. This organization will plant mini-forests of drought-resistant trees to help conserve water, reduce urban heat, and provide habitats for wildlife, promoting the benefits of green infrastructure in urban areas.
In Manitoba and Saskatchewan, the Manitoba Métis Federation, Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds Inc., and Relay Education received portions of the funding to support diverse environmental projects. The Manitoba Métis Federation will plant shelterbelts to combat soil erosion and promote food security, while the Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds will install floating treatment wetlands to improve water quality in Yorkton. Relay Education will offer workshops to inspire youth from Indigenous and low-income communities to pursue careers in the green economy.
Ontario’s Evergreen, Iron & Earth, RAINscapeTO, and Sustainable Kingston were also among the grant recipients. Evergreen will engage over 10,000 students annually in outdoor learning programs that address climate change and sustainability. Iron & Earth will launch a Climate Career Portal to help individuals transition into green careers. RAINscapeTO will create rain gardens to reduce flooding and promote groundwater recharge, while Sustainable Kingston will offer workshops to help local organizations adapt to climate change.
“We’re proud to have a number of key national partners in our Wawanesa Climate Champions program,” said Graham Haigh, Wawanesa’s senior vice president and chief operating officer – West.
Do you have something to say about this story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
