— Our Support

Let Us Help You

01

Apply Online

Review the criteria and eligibility guidelines to ensure you meet the qualifications.  Next, fill out the application form below.

02

Application Review

Once received, the Beneficiary Liaison will contact you to talk about your request and prepare a report for the Beneficiary Reviewing Committee.

03

Confirmation

Approved applicants will be contacted by a BCHF staff member to arrange a presentation of the cheque in person, if possible.

Criteria & Eligibility Guidelines

To qualify for funding, applicants must


  • Reside in British Columbia and be employed within the food, beverage, tourism, or hospitality industry, or in a directly related field.
  • Hold a minimum of two years of employment in hospitality and tourism.
  • Provide evidence that their primary source of income stems from hospitality and tourism.
  • Demonstrate a clear and urgent financial need for assistance, including exploration of medical and benefit plans, employment insurance, and other insurance options.
  • Specify a distinct, tangible, and finite financial requirement resulting from a particular medical circumstance (such as injury, disability, or rehabilitation); note that the BCHF does not cover lost wages.


Each award has a financial cap determined by individual cases and fund availability. Payments to eligible beneficiaries are issued via cheque and directed to the beneficiary. Processing and delivery of funds may take up to five days following approval of the application.


In certain instances, we may match funds raised at third-party events arranged by the applicant's employer, friends, or colleagues. Our resources are allocated to support those most in need. The BCHF endeavours to assist individuals in regaining stability and returning to work upon the resolution of their medical issues. Some cases involve individuals facing life-threatening medical situations or critical needs, potentially leading to homelessness without our intervention.


Applicants are encouraged to apply if they are unsure about eligibility, as each application undergoes independent assessment based on its own merits.


Please help us review your situation promptly by including in your application:


  • Your current resume (or a detailed description of your current and/or past working experience)
  • Government issued ID
  • Supporting medical documents


Funded recipients' names and stories will be publicly and respectfully shared. This will help us promote and grow the foundation’s visibility and credibility, and ultimately our trust fund.


Frequently

Asked

Questions

Q: Do I have to live in BC to benefit from the fund?


A: Yes, beneficiaries must reside in British Columbia to be eligible.


Q: I work in the hospitality industry, but my wife does not. If she becomes critically ill, can we apply to the foundation for support?


A: Yes, if you work in the Hospitality Industry and a need arises for your spouse or child you can apply on behalf of them for support.

Q: All I have to do to receive a cheque is fill in a form, right?



A: No – the application is only part of the process. After the form is filled out you will likely be interviewed over the phone in order to come to a final decision which will include more detailed questions.


Q: Can I combine a financial award from BCHF with my extended medical plan?



A: An extended medical plan and financial assistance from the BCHF are unrelated. If you receive benefits you may not qualify for support from the BCHF unless the critical and immediate financial need is not covered by the benefits. The best way to know if you qualify is to apply.


Q: Does the BCHF cover lost wages?



A: No, the BCHF does not cover lost wages.


Q: Do I have to be currently employed to receive help?


A: Yes. You may be off work, but must be employed in the hospitality or tourism industry.

Q: I work for a company that mainly sells supplies to hotels and restaurants.  Am I eligible for support?


A: If a person’s livelihood depends on the Hospitality and Tourism Industry they may be eligible. The best thing to do is apply and find out.


Q: Is there a minimum amount that each beneficiary receives?


A: The support each beneficiary receives is unique to their circumstances and it is determined on a case by case basis.



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