NOTE: A list of Cape Breton projects approved for this funding is at the bottom of this release.
Government is supporting Nova Scotia’s rich cultural diversity with an investment of more than $900,000 to improve community halls and other public spaces where people gather.
This includes 14 Cape Breton projects that total more than $388,000 announced in Sydney today, Aug. 9, by Municipal Affairs Minister Derek Mombourquette, on behalf of Communities, Culture and Heritage Minister Leo Glavine. The projects are funded through the Community Facilities Improvement Program.
“Nova Scotia’s diverse cultural heritage is found within its communities, its people, and its buildings and there is no greater example than here in Whitney Pier,” said Mr. Mombourquette. “Government recognizes that it is important to support these communities to keep them active, strong and vibrant.”
Facility repairs in Whitney Pier, where representatives of the African Nova Scotian and Polish communities took part in today’s announcement, include a roof replacement, a new generator, doors and insulation for Menelik Hall and a new roof on the Polish Village Hall.
“Menelik Hall is an important part of the fabric of our African Nova Scotia community of Whitney Pier and surrounding areas and the board could not be happier to receive this funding,” said Michael Morrison, chair of the Menelik Hall Association. “The renovations will ensure our hall remains a place where our youth, seniors and community at large gather to celebrate, recognize and promote the rich cultures that make up our great community.”
The Community Facilities Improvement program will fund up to 75 per cent of actual project costs, to a maximum of $50,000, for non-profit groups to improve their facilities and public spaces.
“A sense of community is part of what ties us all together and the funding through this program will help us in making the Polish Village Hall safe and inviting to all,” said Tony Melski, chair of St. Michael’s Polish Benefit Society.
The province’s role is to help support the infrastructure for strong and vibrant communities. These investments are tied to Nova Scotia’s Culture Action Plan and support the outcomes in the strategy.
Other projects funded through the facilities program will be announced later.
Source: Release