Why is Variety needed?

Raising a child with special needs can be fraught with unimaginable obstacles. Many of the families that require our assistance fall just above the poverty line (with an average combined household income of $40,000). Parents face opportunity costs, often having to give up or limit their employment to care for a child with special needs. Single parents face even greater challenges as the sole provider and caregiver. Many single moms and dads come to Variety for help.

Funding from Variety helps to cover costs for medical care and services, mobility and communication equipment, therapies and developmental programs not covered by private or public health plans.

Often a child’s condition is complex, which means care and support is needed for various aspects of their development throughout their childhood. It is a journey that children and their families face with perseverance, and with the support of donors, Variety is by their side.

Will donors receive a tax receipt?

Yes. Variety will issue you a tax receipt right away via email. Monthly donors will receive their tax receipt at the end of the month. If you do not provide an email address, your tax receipt will still be issued, provided we receive all pertinent information including address and phone number but it will take longer to arrive.

Why do you want my email / How will you use my email?

By providing your email, we can send you your tax receipt right away. Variety does occasionally email our donors with information about Variety, upcoming events and exciting developments. We follow Canada’s anti-spam legislation and donors can easily opt-out of emails at any time.

Where does donor money go?

Grants are provided directly to individual families and local organizations that provide specialized programs and services for children who have special needs in B.C. Funding from Variety helps to cover costs for medical care and services, mobility and communication equipment, therapies and developmental programs not covered by private or public health plans.

Does Variety fund other organizations?

Variety BC primarily focuses directly funding individual families, but we also provide grants to organizations when possible. This form of teamwork exponentially increases the impact Variety has throughout British Columbia, and builds capacity for support within the community.

Is Variety a registered charity?

One of the oldest in BC! Our Registered Charity number is: #108168709. We’ve been here for over 50 years, and have helped launch organizations like BC Children’s Hospital and Canuck Place.

How can a person get involved with Variety?

Variety welcomes volunteers of all ages and abilities; to find out how you can become involved, contact our Manager of Volunteer Services at volunteer@variety.bc.ca. More information on volunteering is available under the “Get Involved” tab on Variety’s website (variety.bc.ca).

How does the grant application process work?

Families must meet some basic criteria, at which point our granting team will be in touch. To start the process, visit the Grants section of our website (variety.bc.ca).

How is Variety in BC connected to Variety International?

Variety in BC is one of 41 chapters in 11 countries around the world that form the entire Variety International organization. The original chapter was founded in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1927. The funds that are raised in BC are distributed exclusively in BC and the Yukon.