For nearly 50 years, the Vancouver Police Foundation has quietly supported every corner of our city by funding VPD officer-initiated programs that make Vancouver a city better for all – granting over $3 million to 113 programs and initiatives in 2023 alone.
The Vancouver Police Foundation was founded in 1976 by concerned citizens to fund VPD community engagement and public safety programs that fall outside of the regular operating budget. Since its inception, the Vancouver Police Foundation has provided $14.5 million to nearly 300 innovative and impactful programs that support youth, seniors, women, and the most vulnerable and marginalized individuals in Vancouver.
Most of these life-changing programs are spearheaded by dedicated VPD officers who want to make a lasting difference in their community. Due to the nature of their work, these officers often see gaps and needs in our neighbourhoods before anyone else. They turn to the Vancouver Police Foundation to help them launch and operate impactful programs that fill these gaps and make our city safer for everyone. In most cases, the officers volunteer their time to manage these programs after shifts or on days off.
Program support falls within four key areas: Youth Programs, Mental Health & Addictions, Community Outreach & Engagement, and Specialized Equipment & Technology. The VPF does not fund policing services and has no input into the VPD’s operations.