Even in tough economic times a new survey says more Canadians are willing to loosen their purse strings for charity.

A BMO – Harris Private Banking poll found 79 per cent of those surveyed had given to charity over the past 12 months.

That was up sharply from 68 per cent recorded in last year’s poll.

The survey suggests Canadians are also willing to dig deeper into their wallets than last year, with the average donation rising to $557 from $487 in 2011.

BMO’s Marvi Ricker says the increase  can be chalked up in part to Zoomers who are  anxious to support the health care system  that will benefit them in the coming years.