Saven Financial invests in Ontario communities through member-led giving program

Hamilton, ON, July 20, 2026 – Saven Financial members are once again helping make a difference in communities across Ontario by directing a portion of the organization’s profits to causes that matter most to them.

Through its annual member survey, Saven members help determine where community investments are made, ensuring support is directed to organizations addressing some of Ontario’s most pressing social challenges.

This year, Saven Financial, a division of FirstOntario Credit Union, will contribute $51,200 to three organizations working to support youth mental health, combat hunger, and address housing insecurity and homelessness across the province.

The 2026 funding will be distributed as follows:

• $23,900 (47%) to Raising the Roof (housing and homelessness)
• $14,500 (28%) to Feed Ontario (fighting hunger)
• $12,800 (25%) to Children’s Mental Health Ontario (youth mental health and wellness)

Since 2022, Saven has contributed nearly $214,000 to these organizations, including close to $110,000 to Raising the Roof, more than $56,500 to Feed Ontario, and nearly $47,000 to Children’s Mental Health Ontario.

Saven will continue to engage members in determining future community investments while regularly reviewing its giving priorities to ensure support reaches communities where it can make the greatest impact.

“The challenges facing many Ontarians, from food insecurity and housing affordability to mental health concerns continue to grow in both complexity and urgency. We’re proud to support organizations that are creating meaningful change and grateful to our members for helping guide these investments. Their input ensures our community giving reflects the priorities and values of the people we serve.”
Joanne Battaglia, senior vice-president, Marketing, Communications & Community Partnerships, FirstOntario Credit Union

“Raising the Roof is so grateful for Saven Financial’s partnership. The significant contributions, totalling nearly $110,000 has enabled us to build and preserve 147 homes for people who were experiencing or at risk of homelessness. We have hundreds of more units in the pipeline and this latest donation will help us get started on them to have impact on the lives of thousands of people over the next few years. Thank you very much Saven members for your trust and partnership.”
Leslie Bellingham, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships, Raising the Roof

"On behalf of Children's Mental Health Ontario, I want to extend our sincere thanks to Saven Financial and FirstOntario Credit Union for their continued generosity and commitment to child and youth mental health. This year's donation of $12,800, bringing Saven's total contribution to nearly $48,000 since 2022, reflects a meaningful investment in the well-being of children, youth and families across Ontario. Partnerships like this help strengthen our collective efforts to advance a more responsive, equitable and sustainable community mental health system, ensuring young people have access to the care and support they need. We are deeply grateful for Saven's ongoing partnership and shared commitment to improving mental health outcomes for children and youth."
Cindy Prins, Interim CEO, Children’s Mental Health Ontario

"As food bank use continues to rise, Saven Financial's ongoing support is helping ensure food banks across Ontario can continue to provide nutritious food to people in their communities. We're grateful for their continued partnership, which helps keep food bank shelves stocked and ensures food banks can be there for everyone who turns to them for support."
Carolyn Stewart, CEO, Feed Ontario

About Saven Financial, a division of FirstOntario Credit Union
Saven means saving. It’s that simple. Everything we do is to help people grow their savings for the future while building their local communities, too. That's why our online platform is both easy and convenient to use, and our members always benefit from our competitive rates and have a voice in our support for community causes. As a division of FirstOntario Credit Union, Saven Financial is powered by the strength of one of the largest credit unions in the province. By maximizing opportunities for returns and using profits for a higher purpose, we take care of our members and local communities. To learn more about Saven Financial, visit SavenFinancial.ca and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.