The Zoomer Report: Charity Stats 2008

Are you planning to give money to charity this year? And will it be more than you gave last year? Statscan says last year, the downturn had Canadians pinching their pennies, and donations dropped more than 5% to just over 8 billion dollars. The United Way fell short of its goal for the first time in 20 years. Meanwhile the charities say there’s much more demand for the help they offer – an increase of 25% or even more.

The news isn’t all bad, however. The figures show that while the amounts may be down, the number of people whose tax returns reported charitable to almost 5.8 million. Since tax filers can combine their donations with their spouses to maximize the tax break, the actual number of people who gave to charity is really higher.

And here at home, people give more than average. The median donation last year was $250 across the country. In Ontario it was $300 and Toronto, $340.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ TIM MCCAIG

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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