NEWS RELEASE
MP LLOYD LONGFIELD
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As Canadians continue to adapt to the realities of COVID-19, local governments and community partners across the country are adapting their spaces and services to keep residents safe and healthy, support economic recovery, create jobs, and build vibrant, resilient communities.
Today, the KW Community Foundation and MP Lloyd Longfield shared the news that funding in the amount of $30,000 will support the Guelph Hiking Trail Club’s project as part of the first round of the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative.
Through the $31-million Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, the Government of Canada, alongside Community Foundations of Canada, is building safer spaces and ensuring a higher quality of life for people across the country by helping communities adapt to the challenges presented by COVID-19.
The KW Community Foundation is supporting the project as part of the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative. The funding will ensure that local trails (specifically the James Street Trail) which was previously not maintained, will have a safe crossing bridge for all to enjoy the trails and connections with parkland, transit as well as a gateway to other local routes and trail systems in Guelph.
The application portal is now open for Round 2. Applications must be submitted by June 25, 2021, at 5 p.m. PST. Applicants who did not receive funding in round one may re-apply to round two but will not be guaranteed funding.
Applications for the creation of safe public spaces that improve mobility for all, as well as addressing changing community needs with digital projects, are being considered as we deal with the ongoing challenges of COVID-19.
Quick facts
- The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative was created to help communities adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and create safe ways for residents to access services and enjoy the outdoors. The Initiative is designed to fund eligible projects between $5,000 and$250,000 that fall under three main themes: creating safe and vibrant public spaces, improving mobility options, and digital solutions.
- Community Foundations of Canada together with its partners, including the CanadianUrban Institute, is working with community foundations across the country to manage the funding process and serve the distinct needs of communities across Canada, including equity-seeking groups, interested in applying.
- A variety of community-led organizations are eligible to apply, including local governments, charities, Indigenous communities, and registered non-profit organizations.
- The first intake for projects was launched on February 9, 2021 and closed on March 9, 2021.
- The second intake is now open and close on June 25, 2021. Applicants wishing to apply for the second round can access further details on the Community Foundations of Canada website. https://communityfoundations.ca/
Quotes
“The project we’re announcing today demonstrates the creativity and commitment of communities and community partners across Canada to respond to the unique needs of their residents and create a high quality of life for them as they continue to remain vigilant in this pandemic. Through this project, the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative will help Canadians and their families enjoy safer, more vibrant, and inclusive communities now and into the future. It’s through investments in infrastructure that we’re working to ensure outcomes with triple benefits – growing our economy, fighting climate change, and reducing social inequality and ensuring a better quality of life of all Canadians.”
- The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
"COVID-19 has put a serious strain on cities and towns across our country, impacting the wayour neighbourhoods look, work, and feel. In response, the Government of Canada has introduced the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, designed to bring joy back to our streets in a safe and innovative way. We’ve seen many innovative projects, like the one announced today, roll in from across the country and we’re excited to see how they enhance the lives of Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
- Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Member of Parliament for Halifax
“Communities know best what kind of projects would have the greatest impact for their residents and local economies as they respond to the unique challenges presented by COVID-19. That’s why it’s great to see support for the Guelph Hiking Trail’s project, which will ensure safe healthy activities in our community. Through the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative, we are proud to support community-driven solutions that allow Canadians to safely participate in daily social and economic activities.”
- Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph
"Trails have been a major pressure relief for people during COVID while so many other things have been shut down. Their value has never been as fully realized as they are during these difficult times. Investment and improvements are needed now more than ever. The community has really come together around the James Street project. It has needed attention for as long as anyone can remember. This grant is making a good solution possible for everyone in Guelph and we're very proud to be a part of that."
- John Fisher, President GHTC
“The Healthy Communities Initiative is supporting organizations in South West Ontario to bring people together in our communities both in person and digitally, while respecting public health measures. These projects show us the creativity and resourcefulness of communities as theycreate temporary and longer-lasting solutions that enable people to connect and access public spaces safely.”
- Andrea Dicks, President, Community Foundations of Canada
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