April 2025 — Postal Strike Alert: Again??? Yes, Again!

Canada Post’s recent strike during the holiday fundraising period cost charities approximately $266 million in donations. While the strike has ended, ongoing negotiations suggest the union could be in a strike position again by May. To prepare for potential postal disruptions, charities should act now to safeguard their revenue.

1. Adjust Your Mail Strategy

   Charities should spread mailings throughout the year to reduce the risk of disruption during critical fundraising periods.

   • Send spring appeals early to avoid delays.
   • Encourage monthly giving to create reliable revenue streams.
   • Include QR codes in mail to drive digital donations.
   • If you lost revenue during past disruptions, consider adding an extra appeal.
   • Communicate strike messaging across all channels, providing clear instructions for alternative giving methods.

2. Leverage Phone and Face-to-Face Communications

   Phone calls, SMS, and face-to-face interactions are great ways to amplify fundraising efforts.

   • Collect cell phone numbers from donors at every opportunity to expand outreach.
   • Educate donors on the potential strike and offer alternative giving options.

3. Accelerate Digital Fundraising

   With the possibility of mail disruptions, focus on online revenue.

   • Update your website with strike alerts and optimize donation pages.
   • Use email and digital ads to target direct mail donors, encouraging online gifts.
   • Launch digital ad campaigns and peer-to-peer initiatives to keep fundraising momentum.
   • Expand your digital channels, including social media and paid ads, to reach donors in various ways.

4. Integrate Your Fundraising Channels

   Diversify your fundraising efforts across multiple platforms—don’t rely on one channel.

   • Coordinate direct mail, digital, and phone campaigns to reinforce your messaging.
   • Ensure your messaging is consistent across all touchpoints to strengthen donor relationships.

5. Keep Calm and Fundraise On

   Even with external challenges, continue engaging with your donors.

   • Stay proactive and adjust strategies to keep fundraising efforts on track.

Final Thoughts

While postal strikes may disrupt fundraising, charities that prepare ahead and integrate digital solutions will minimize these impacts. By diversifying your channels and keeping donors informed, you’ll be better positioned to maintain strong fundraising efforts and secure the vital funding your organization needs.

Thank you to Hilborn Charity e-News for publishing a longer version of this article here:
https://hilborn-charityenews.ca/articles/fundraising-postal-strike-alert-how-nonprofits-can