GC45

GCE45 GS02 Compassionate Assistance Fund Transfer for September 2025

1. What is the issue?

Administration of the Compassionate Assistance Fund would be easier if the assets were transferred from The United Church Foundation back to The United Church of Canada.

2. Why is this issue important?

The idea of the church offering compassionate financial assistance originated in 1929 when Emergency Grants were first approved by the Board of Pensions. The assets of the Compassionate Assistance Fund were transferred to The United Church Foundation in 2013.

3. How might the General Council Executive respond to the issue?

The General Secretary recommends

That the Executive of the General Council authorize the General Secretary to request the transfer of assets in the Compassionate Assistance Fund, currently held by The United Church Foundation, to The United Church of Canada.

4. What will be the impact?

The impact of this decision will be a saving of staff time when Compassionate Assistance Fund grants and loans are shared.

The assets of the Compassionate Assistance Fund will be invested in the General Council Office’s Treasury Fund portfolio, which is managed by professional external investment managers, in accordance with the Statement of Investment Policy and Responsible Investment Guidelines approved by the General Council Executive. Investment income generated will be allocated back to the Compassionate Assistance Fund to support the long-term sustainability of the program.

5. How does this proposal help us live into the commitments on equity?

The Compassionate Assistance Fund receives applications for assistance from racialized admission ministers as they settle into their first pastoral relationships in Canada. This proposal will help ensure they receive grants and loans in a more timely manner.