News from the PWRDF
Membership approves new name for PWRDF
After almost two years of listening together and planning, PWRDF has chosen a new name, Alongside Hope. It was approved, along with its French equivalent, Auprès de l’espoir, at a Special Members meeting held Tuesday, October 15, in accordance with our corporate bylaws.
The issue of changing PWRDF’s name to one that is easier to say and less confusing has been ever-present for many years. In 2022, the PWRDF Board approved a budget and the creation of a Task Team to identify a new name that would honour its history as the Anglican Church of Canada’s agency for international development and humanitarian response, but would also carry it into the future. The Task Team included staff, board members and volunteers from across Canada. This team gathered several times on Zoom with the goal of identifying a compelling name – a name that better reflects our work, and one that would sustain our work into the future, while honouring our legacy.
The best gifts can’t be wrapped!
At PWRDF, we believe some of the best gifts in life can’t be wrapped. As we reflect on the past year with gratitude, we’re reminded that the gifts of love, hope and transformation that our donors make possible are the greatest gifts of all.
Welcome to the 2024 World of Gifts, PWRDF’s annual gift-giving campaign dedicated to alleviating poverty, promoting sustainability, and supporting communities in need across Canada and around the world. This year, PWRDF is thrilled to introduce 38 impactful gifts, including donor favourites as well as some new additions.
“I’m excited to share that for the second year in a row, an anonymous donor has graciously offered to match gifts up to $110,000,” says Carolyn Cummins, Director of Fundraising and Supporter Relations. “We are deeply grateful for their generous support, which doubles the impact of the gifts given through this year’s World of Gifts.”
PWRDF has simplified the shopping experience, making it easier to browse and purchase gifts for your friends and family. The online store has been updated to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. If you prefer a physical guide, that’s no problem! The print guide will be distributed in October, November, and December issues of the Anglican Journal. Additional copies of the guide can be ordered at pwrdf@pwrdf.org.
Reversing climate change by restoring nature in Zimbabwe
Due to climate change, biodiversity loss and land degradation, people in the Nemakonde area of Zimbabwe are facing many challenges. There is not enough food to eat or wood for fuel. They are susceptible to weather events and natural disasters, degradation of ecosystems, internal displacement and emigration.
PWRDF partner TSURO Trust is working to improve conditions for community members. A project funded by the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and the Government of Canada, and supported by PWRDF, is adopting gender-responsive, nature-based solutions to improve biodiversity and strengthen climate resilient livelihoods.
The Nature+ project began in October 2023 and will run until March 31, 2026, directly affecting more than 1,700 people, and indirectly affecting twice as many. It will protect, manage and restore ecosystems, as well as address societal challenges such as food security. It will enhance the wellbeing of communities and restore landscapes through three inter-linked elements.
Clean water and food security projects improving lives in Cuba
In rural communities in Cuba, where poverty, hunger and inequality are a daily reality, the Episcopal Church of Cuba’s Integral Development Program (PDM) is bringing hope and transformation. By addressing the root causes of these issues, PDM is empowering individuals and communities to break free from the cycles of poverty and injustice.
