In what’s being called a first for Canada, a hospital foundation in Edmonton, Alberta is now accepting donations made with cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC).
The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation has partnered with The Giving Block to accept cryptocurrencies that include Bitcoin and Ethereum (ETH).
The move gives the foundation a chance to participate in crypto-giving campaigns and connect with a new group of donors, the foundation said in a news release.
The foundation added that it, along with many charitable organizations, is struggling with the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on donations and revenue. The foundation sees accepting cryptocurrencies as a new potential income stream.
In an interview with Global News’ Edmonton affiliate, Koleya Karringten, executive director of the Canadian Blockchain Consortium that helps guide businesses in the use of blockchain technology, said: “Bitcoin is becoming an important source of funding for charitable organizations.”
Karringten said the Glenrose foundation is “championing the movement,” adding that she believes the foundation will be one of many charities that accept cryptocurrencies across Canada in coming years.
The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation is believed to be the first healthcare charity in Canada to accept donations in the form of cryptocurrencies.
