Hamilton, ON, June 30, 2025 –
Each year, Saven Financial gives its members a voice in selecting their
charities of choice and deciding where a portion of the organization’s
profits will go that support community initiatives that benefit Ontarians.
Saven, a division of
FirstOntario Credit Union, which offers market-leading products and rates annually will be
distributing
$40,700 to
organizations in Ontario working to address issues related to youth mental
health and wellness, fighting hunger and housing and homelessness.
Each year in the spring, Saven members are asked for their input through a
survey, and this year’s annual giving will be shared as follows:
Since 2022, Saven has donated close to $86,000 to Raising the Roof, more
than $42,000 to Feed Ontario and $34,000 to Children’s Mental Health
Ontario; a total of $162,000. Saven will continue to review the initiatives
supported for maximum benefit in all corners of Ontario and engage members
in the annual decision process.
"The issues facing our communities are significant and there are no quick
solutions. Saven Financial is committed to the success and well-being of our
members and communities and we’re proud to support organizations that are
working tirelessly to address these issues. Giving our members a voice in
our annual decision-making process about financial donations and community
support is a core principle of our organization and we thank everyone who
participated."
Joanne Battaglia, senior vice-president, Marketing, Communications and
Community Partnerships, FirstOntario Credit Union
"In the last four years, Saven has made significant investments into Raising
the Roof's work, allowing us to create and preserve 69 affordable homes.
Because of your generosity and support, 155 people who were experiencing
homelessness or housing insecurity, staying in shelters, with friends,
unsure if they would have a home next month or not, have safe, stable,
affordable housing with the ongoing supports they need to stay in their
homes."
Leslie Bellingham, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships,
Raising the Roof
"We are incredibly grateful to Saven Financial and FirstOntario Credit Union
for their continued generosity and commitment to child and youth mental
health. Their support helps us build a stronger system of care for Ontario's
infants, children, youth, and families. Contributions like this one enable
CMHO to continue advocating for meaningful change and to strengthen the
capacity of our province's community-based mental health services. We're
proud to partner with organizations like Saven that share our vision for a
healthier, more equitable future for young people."
Tatum Wilson, CEO, Children’s Mental Health Ontario
"Over the past three years, Saven Financials' generosity means that the
equivalent of more than 85,000 meals have been provided to help food banks
across Ontario support their communities, Feed Ontario relies on support
from partners like Saven Financial and we are extremely grateful for their
continued support in helping us strive for an Ontario where everyone is food
secure."
Carolyn Stewart, CEO, Feed Ontario
For more information, please contact:
Tony Iavarone, AVP, Communications and Public Relations
FirstOntario Credit Union
Tony.Iavarone@FirstOntario.com
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
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