Nearly $1 million in funding approved from CBT Social Grants Program
By Contributor
Thirty-two projects that support social well-being have been approved to receive nearly $1 million in funding from Columbia Basin Trust’s Social Grants Program.
“Our selection committee approved a diverse range of projects from a strong showing of applications during our annual intake,” said Sabrina Curtis, Director, Sector Initiatives.
“These projects will continue to build and strengthen the social sector in our region.”
One of the successful recipients is the Golden Food Bank Society. Its project involves a food recovery program for the Golden area.
“In this initial stage, we hope to help minimize waste while increasing our supply of food for hampers,” said Melanie Myers, Executive Director. “We also hope to create a more sustainable food bank model that other groups can use in the future.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cranbrook will pilot the expansion of its program into Nelson and Castlegar.
“After a year of development work we are thrilled to be able to offer our In School Mentoring programs in Castlegar and Nelson in 2014,” said Dana Osiowy, Executive Director.
“We know about the long-term benefits to our children when they have a mentor and having a professionally trained and supported mentoring team in the West Kootenay will mean those benefits will be felt throughout the communities.”
Other grants include St. Mary’s Indian Band project; City of Revelstoke, which will deliver a financial literacy program; and the Healthy Start program in Elk Valley for children aged three to five years.
The Social Grants Program Selection Committee makes the granting decisions. This volunteer group of Basin residents includes individuals who have experience and expertise in the social sector, and individuals who have broader community development experience.
For more information about the program, visit cbt.org/sgp.
