Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund reactivated following flood emergency

In response to recent flooding and the declaration of a State of Local Emergency, three Abbotsford institutions have reactivated the Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund (ADRF) to support residents, businesses, and farmers impacted by the event.

The Abbotsford Community Foundation (ACF), the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, and the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) announced the fund’s reactivation on December 12. The ADRF was last activated during the 2021 floods, when it raised more than $4.4 million for flood recovery efforts in the region.

According to the organizations, the fund is intended to provide a centralized and coordinated way for individuals, businesses, and organizations to contribute to recovery efforts during the current emergency.

ACF will serve as the donation hub, managing contributions, issuing tax receipts, and distributing funds to areas of greatest need.

“As our community's foundation, we know we can come together when we're called to action. We did it in 2021 and we can do it again,” said Areni Kelleppan, executive director of the Abbotsford Community Foundation. “We know just how generous, resilient, & caring Abbotsford is and know that with the re-activation of the Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund, our community will step up for each other because that's what we do.”

The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce said it will mobilize its business network to raise funds and advocate for support for affected businesses and agricultural operations.

“Flood events have far-reaching impacts on our farmers, businesses, and supply chains,” said Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber is committed to supporting those affected through the Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund, and encourages others to contribute.”

Mitchell also pointed to the region’s ongoing vulnerability, noting the significance of Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley as one of Canada’s most productive agricultural areas.

UFV, which was founded in 1974 with a mission focused on community engagement, is also supporting the initiative.

“At UFV, our strength comes from the relationships we build and the stories we share,” said Susan Mide Kiss, vice-president, community engagement at UFV. “This work highlights the many ways our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners are creating meaningful impact together.”

Donations to the Abbotsford Disaster Relief Fund can be made online through the Abbotsford Community Foundation.

In 2021, the ADRF’s fundraising effort demonstrated the scale of support possible when community members, businesses, and farmers work together during times of crisis.