The Community Places program is marking 30 years of supporting recreational and cultural facilities across Manitoba by providing nearly $3.6 million in grants to projects championed by non-profit and community-led organizations. This announcement was made by Indigenous and Municipal Relations Minister Eileen Clarke announced today.
“Over the last three decades, Community Places has helped thousands of community groups make their projects a reality,” said Clarke. “These projects have enriched the lives of countless Manitobans and our new government is honoured to be part of this milestone year.”
The Community Places program provides funding and planning assistance to build, upgrade, expand or acquire facilities focused on culture, recreation and wellness. This year, 214 community groups will receive a grant, including the Manitoba Cycling Association, which will receive $45,000 to build a new mountain bike course and venue at FortWhyte Alive for the 2017 Canada Games.
“Cycling is growing as a sport and for recreation in Manitoba,” said Twila Cruickshank, executive director, Manitoba Cycling Association. “Nearly half of our members list mountain biking as their primary cycling interest. Once complete, the new Bison Butte course will be a great opportunity for them and many other Manitoba athletes to train and excel in their sport.”
Successful grant applicants must also contribute to project costs, often through local fundraising efforts, grants from other sources, or donated labour and materials. In total, this year’s approved projects have leveraged more than $36 million toward Manitoba’s economy, the minister noted.
Over the last 30 years, the Community Places program has provided more than $118 million to support more than 7,700 community-led projects across Manitoba. It has also helped to leverage more than $710 million from other sources to support these initiatives and the provincial economy.
More information on Community Places and a list of all funded projects can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/housing/cpp.
