December 11, 2017
Province Announces Funding for Community Development Programs
The province will be providing more than $2.6 million in grants to projects for non-profit and community-led organizations, community-driven neighbourhood revitalization, and local community development projects, Municipal Relations Minister Jeff Wharton announced today.
“These are important investments that build and revitalize our communities,” said Wharton. “Our government is committed to working with our community groups and supporting projects that will provide long-term benefits to communities and enrich the lives of many Manitobans.”
The Manitoba government has committed more than $20 million in 2017-18 through existing commitments and the recent single-window intake to support community development.
The Community Places program provides funding and planning assistance to build, upgrade, expand or acquire facilities focused on culture, recreation and wellness. Successful grant applicants must also contribute to project costs, often through local fundraising efforts, grants from other sources, or donated labour and materials. This year, 98 community groups from across the province will receive a grant.
This year, six communities were approved for projects through the Partner 4 Growth program, which provides cost-shared funding for regions to identify and pursue economic development opportunities and assist communities and regions to strengthen or diversify economic activity.
A total of 81 projects were approved through the Hometown Manitoba program, which provides financial support for rural and northern community projects initiated by local communities, organizations, co-operatives and businesses that enhance main street public places and building exteriors.
Neighbourhoods Alive! supports and encourages revitalization efforts in designated neighbourhoods across Manitoba in a number of key areas including employment and training, education and recreation, safety and crime prevention, and housing and physical improvements. This year, 37 community-driven projects were supported under the program.
Following thorough consultations and a review, the province revamped its community development programs and created a single portal for application intakes and assessments in 2017. This new process has allowed for better planning and outcomes which help to sustain community efforts in community revitalization, the minister noted.
More information on the programs above and a list of all funded projects can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/mr/bldgcomm/index.html.
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