New statistics show that in recent years, Canadians have been opening their wallets and giving more to charity. But when it comes to generosity, one British Columbia region stands out from the crowd.
According to Statistics Canada, residents in Abbotsford and Mission are the most generous donors in Canada. It is a region where the median donation is $620.
That's twice the median donation across Canada.
Areas that ranked just behind Abbotsford/Mission in terms of their generosity are also located in B.C.
In Kelowna, the median donation is $370. In Vancouver, it's $360.
Related links: Mennonite Central Committee
Related links: Fraser Valley Gleaners
At the Mennonite Central Committee's warehouse in Abbotsford, Wayne Bremner, of the Mennonite Central Committee, B.C., says he thinks locals give more in part because they personally know about need.
"Our particular support bases are Mennonites. A lot of them have settled here in Abbotsford and know and have experienced hunger and conflict either themselves directly or their parents," said Bremner
He says Abbotsford is a very faith-based community with churches and temples that support giving.
"I have read from Statistics Canada, people who go to church regularly give about twice as much as those who don't,'' said Bremner.
With a report by CTV British Columbia's Michele Brunoro.
