A poll released Tuesday by MasterCard Canad reveals good news for charities: more than half of Canadians (55%) report that over the last 12 months, the amount of money donated to charity has remained the same.

These findings come on the heels of a recent report from Statistics Canada indicating that Canadians donated approximately 5% less in 2008 than the year prior.

Despite continued economic turmoil, 2009 shows signs that Canadians remain committed to helping those in need, MasterCard says.

Its Charitable Giving Poll also reveals that in fact, another 13% report, contributions have increased in the last year. As holiday expenses build, one in five (18%) Canadians said they increased non-monetary donations in the past year, including volunteer and non-paid charitable work.

“Whether financial or non-monetary donations, Canadians have proven that charitable giving is a priority to them,” says Julie Wilson, MasterCard Canada. “Despite tough economic times, the gift of giving continues to shape our Canadian culture. We remain committed to our community, charities and those that need a little assistance — especially as we head into the holiday season.”

Among the poll’s key findings:

One-fifth (20%) report that they will not be making financial charitable donations this year.

Those between the ages of 25-34 (28%) are least likely to give to charity, versus just 12% of those over the age of 65.

More than one-quarter of Quebecers (28%) reveal no plans to contribute to charity.

To compensate for a decline in financial contributions, 18% of Canadians report that in the past year, they increased their non-monetary charitable donations.

The majority of donors (60%) are planning to contribute up to $500 this holiday season. Only 5% are expecting to contribute over $1,000.

Twice as many Albertans (10%) reveal plans to donate over $1,000, versus only 2% of Quebecers.

To kick off the season of giving, MasterCard Canada has launched a national fundraising initiative to support Right to Play, the international humanitarian organization that improves the lives of children in countries suffering from poverty, war and disease. Through a partnership with Roots Canada, a portion of proceeds from the Canada Collection by Roots will be donated to Right To Play.

The survey was completed by Harris/Decima teleVox on behalf of MasterCard Canada. Interviews were conducted via CATI (Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing) and surveyed 1,000 Canadians 18 years of age and over between October 22 and October 26, 2009. Results to a survey of this size can be considered accurate to within plus or minus 3.1 percentage points.

IE