Cultural Centres get boost

May 27, 2014

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR 227 COMMUNITY RECREATIONAL, CULTURAL FACILITIES ACROSS PROVINCE

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Investments Help Strengthen Neighbourhoods, Create Opportunities for Families: Minister Bjornson

The Manitoba government is investing in recreational, cultural and learning opportunities for families in communities across Manitoba, with support of $2.9 million under the Community Places program, Housing and Community Development Minister Peter Bjornson said today.

“We know communities and neighbourhoods thrive when they have a range of healthy options for recreation, wellness and culture,” said Minister Bjornson.  “We are providing support to 227 community groups who will develop and maintain these important facilities.  The funding will also help leverage over $13 million in support from other sources.”

The Community Places program provides funding and planning assistance to non-profit community organizations to build, upgrade, expand or acquire projects.  Applicants contribute to project costs through local fundraising efforts, grants from other sources or donated labour and materials.

“This year’s projects include museums, playgrounds, multi-use and recreation facilities, child-care centres, libraries, community halls and seniors’ facilities,” said Minister Bjornson.  “The projects can include critical repairs such as fire-safety upgrades, energy-efficiency improvements as well as access upgrades for people with disabilities.”

Among the community groups approved for a grant this year are:

• École Viscount Alexander School, Winnipeg – $15,000 for phase four of school field improvements including walking trails, bridges and landscaping;
• the Exchange Community Building, Winnipeg – $40,000 for window replacement and energy upgrades;
• the Ashley Neufeld softball complex, Brandon – $30,000 toward the installation of a field-irrigation system;
• the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #11, Morden – $30,000 for renovations to make the washrooms more accessible;
• Camp Massad, Winnipeg Beach – $25,000 to improve drainage and accessibility;
• Rotary Park Interactive Play Trail, Thompson – $19,000 for construction of the trail;
• the community of Waterhen – $10,000 for recreation centre/hall renovations to make the washrooms more accessible; and
• the community of Lorette – $5,000 toward construction of soccer fields and outdoor rink amenities.

Since its inception, Community Places has provided more than $110million to support over 7,200 community construction projects provincewide.  These grants have leveraged an estimated $730 million in infrastructure improvements in both rural and urban communities.

More information on Community Places and a list of this year’s approved grants can be found at www.manitoba.ca/housing/cpp.

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