The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan has launched the 2013 granting cycle, which closes on Feb. 8, 2013.

In 2012, the Community Foundation disbursed more than $190,000 to charities throughout the South Okanagan Similkameen, bringing total granting to more than $1 million in 21 years of serving the South Okanagan.

Thirty-eight grants totaling $108,000 were awarded to Penticton charities in 2012.  An additional $82,000 was awarded to charities throughout the South Okanagan Similkameen.  These grants were paid from investment earnings on more than $6 million in endowment funds.

In 2012, grants were paid out to 12 different areas of need in Penticton: Health received $29,553.89; environment $5,223.62; arts and culture $19,559.66; education $4,800; social services $19,002.45; sports and recreation $2,325.69; administration $11,582.09; heritage and restoration $1,500; children and youth $7,598.93; seniors $730.85; scholarship $6,298.47; and animal welfare $217.92.

Organizations that are registered as a Canadian charity under the Federal Income Tax Act are eligible to apply to the foundation for grants.  Grants cannot be made to individuals.

Funding guidelines can be obtained by contacting the foundation’s office at 250-493-9311 or by visiting the website: www.cfso.net.