Lasting donation

5 Good Reasons to Give to the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation

The fundraising campaign for the restoration of Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica relies heavily on public generosity. Here are five concrete reasons to donate, supported by figures, issues, and motivations.

Published and updated on August 19, 20251 min read
5 Good Reasons to Give to the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation
Normand Rajotte

1. Preserve a historic treasure 

Designated a National Historic Site, Notre-Dame Basilica is one of the iconic landmarks of Old Montreal, attracting over one million visitors annually. Every contribution helps fund the restoration of painted decorations, stained glass, the Casavant organ, and archived materials, thus helping to ensure that this heritage masterpiece continues to stand for generations to come. 

2. Protect rare craftsmanship 

The restoration involves skilled masons, master stained-glass artists, gilders, and other artisans: traditional trades that are at risk of disappearing. Donations help fund contracts and internships that pass on these techniques and expertise to a new generation of craftspeople, adding both a human and economic dimension to the project. 

3. Support a vibrant cultural program 

Beyond religious services, the Basilica hosts concerts, nighttime tours, and the immersive AURA experience. The funds raised also help maintain these general public programs during the restoration, thus avoiding prolonged closures and preserving a vital part of the neighbourhood’s cultural life. 

4. Benefit from immediate tax returns 

The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation issues official receipts eligible for federal and provincial tax credits, which can cover up to 48% of the donated amount. For example, a $250 donation effectively costs the donor around $130, while generating a far greater collective impact. 

5. Contribute to the basilica’s future 

Every dollar donated to the Basilica’s restoration campaign contributes to a $50 million effort supporting planned projects. Giving today means inscribing your name in the stone of today and tomorrow. 

Other articles

‘’Culture avec Rose St-Pierre : Concerts de Cantiques à la basilique Notre-Dame’’ 

In the media 

‘’Culture avec Rose St-Pierre : Concerts de Cantiques à la basilique Notre-Dame’’ 

We're featured on ICI Première Montréal 

New at the Foundation: a unique donation experience

When real and virtual worlds converge

New at the Foundation: a unique donation experience

With its Sponsor a Stone initiative, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation is proposing a simultaneously concrete and virtual way for donors to help preserve a heritage gem.

The Magic of the Holidays at the Notre-Dame Basilica 

Jazz, choirs and hymns 

The Magic of the Holidays at the Notre-Dame Basilica 

In December, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal becomes an exceptional venue to celebrate the magic of the holidays. Four series of concerts invite people of all ages to experience unforgettable moments that blend tradition, emotion, and generosity. The profits generated by ticket sales support the restoration work being carried out on the basilica, making these evenings a gesture for the future of this heritage monument.

Where heritage meets innovation: inside the Basilica Foundation’s fundraising event 

A grand evening 

Where heritage meets innovation: inside the Basilica Foundation’s fundraising event 

The second edition of the benefit gala organized by the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal Foundation brought together guests committed around an essential cause: the preservation of this historic monument, a jewel of Quebec and Canadian heritage. 

Restoring Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica: preserving a heritage gem 

Long-term work 

Restoring Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica: preserving a heritage gem 

Since 2019, the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, a neo-Gothic landmark in Old Montreal and witness to two centuries of history, is the subject of an ambitious restoration project. Considered as a giant puzzle by architects and workers alike, the project aims to preserve the architectural and artistic integrity of the building, while ensuring its perennity for future generations.