With extreme weather events increasing in frequency and intensity across Canada, Wawanesa Insurance has expanded its community grant program to support local climate resilience initiatives.
Now in its second year, the Wawanesa Climate Champions: Local Grants program is offering a total of $200,000 in funding to help communities mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change. In a move to boost the program’s reach, the insurer has doubled the maximum individual grant amount from $25,000 to $50,000.
“From wildfires to flooding and hailstorms, this past year has been the most destructive weather-wise in our country’s history,” said Jackie De Pape Hornick, director of Communications & Community Impact at Wawanesa. “As our climate continues to change, Wawanesa is doing its part to help Canadians better protect what matters most.”
The program is open to registered charities, non-profit organizations, and Indigenous communities across Canada. Applications will be accepted until September 26, and all projects must aim to reduce the effects of extreme weather at the local level. Interested applicants can review eligibility criteria and apply at wawanesa.com.
The initiative forms part of Wawanesa’s broader Climate Champions program, which invests $2 million annually to support individuals and organizations tackling climate risks. The company said the funding complements its efforts as a mutual insurer to help build safer and more resilient communities.
Wawanesa’s support for climate adaptation projects comes as insured losses from severe weather events continue to climb. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, 2023 and 2024 each saw multiple billion-dollar weather disasters, including record-breaking wildfires and floods that damaged homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods across the country.
By directing funds to grassroots projects, Wawanesa said it hopes to empower local leaders to address vulnerabilities on the ground, strengthening Canada’s collective ability to withstand future weather-related threats.
