Toronto Arts Foundation receives matching gift of $1 million for Resiliency Fund

Toronto Arts Foundation is delighted to announce that The Slaight Family Foundation has contributed $1 million to the Toronto Arts Foundation Resiliency Fund.

TORONTO, March 30, 2022 – Toronto Arts Foundation is delighted to announce that The Slaight Family Foundation has contributed $1 million to the Toronto Arts Foundation Resiliency Fund. This generous donation matches the lead gift of $1 million from the Hal Jackman Foundation, and provides a catalytic boost in our efforts to support Toronto’s artists and arts workers who were hardest hit by the pandemic.

A pandemic response fund, the Resiliency Fund was created to support Toronto’s artists and arts workers, many of whom have suffered significant financial loss. Four mandated closures of arts venues have taken a toll on the performing arts sector in particular, leading to cancelled contracts for thousands of people. These first two major gifts will directly support the performing arts sector, which lost an estimated 60% of revenues within the first year of the pandemic. Applications for funding are now open for qualifying performing arts organizations committed to paying fees to Toronto artists and arts workers. The deadline to apply to this first round of funding is April 6, 2022.

Subsequent rounds of funding will help artists working in Community Arts, Visual and Media Arts and Literary Arts. Toronto Arts Foundation is welcoming others tocontribute to the Fund so that artists working in all arts disciplines receive support. 

“I am absolutely delighted with this generous donation from The Slaight Family Foundation. I am grateful for their support to artists during this difficult time and their confidence in Toronto Arts Foundation to distribute the funds quickly and efficiently,” said Claire Hopkinson, Director & CEO, Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation. “I am optimistic that this generous donation will inspire other donors to give, ensuring that Toronto’s artists feel appreciated and financially supported.”

"The Slaight Family Foundation is pleased to support this Resiliency Fund to help Toronto artists and art workers who have been so adversely impacted from the pandemic" said Gary Slaight, President & CEO, The Slaight Family Foundation.

For more information about the Resiliency Fund including eligibility, the application process, and to donate, refer to Toronto Arts Foundation’s website

Mitsuki Amano, Donor Relations Coordinator, is also available to answer questions: mitsuki@torontoarts.org

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Toronto Arts Foundation and our supporters share a clear vision for Toronto – a vibrant and creative city where every neighbourhood is enriched by the transformative benefits of the arts. We hope our initiatives, research and awards inspire you to make a contribution. Donate Here

About Toronto Arts Foundation

Toronto Arts Foundation is a charitable organization that sparks creative connections, spotlights artistic excellence, and supports vibrant cultural growth throughout our diverse city, through private sector investment. To learn more or to make a donation, visit torontoartsfoundation.org.

Contact information:

For more information about the Toronto Arts Foundation Resiliency Fund or to book an interview with Claire Hopkinson, please contact:  Sarah Gladki, Communications Manager at sarah@torontoarts.org or 416-392-6802 x 217