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CIF grants announced for southeast communities

The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) announced on Dec. 19 that communities across Saskatchewan will benefit from nearly $2.5 million in contributions through its Oct. 1 allocation.

The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) announced on Dec. 19 that communities across Saskatchewan will benefit from nearly $2.5 million in contributions through its Oct. 1 allocation.

The contribution will support 151 grants for projects that contribute to the wellbeing of people in Saskatchewan.

These projects provide opportunities for children and youth to gain the knowledge, skills and supports to develop positive mental health, self-esteem, and healthy lifestyle behaviours, and ensure families have access to support and resources to create healthy and caring environments.

Projects also provide training and resources for non-profit staff, board members and volunteers to improve program delivery, governance and leadership, and support individuals to become involved as active citizens, volunteers and community leaders.

Three projects in Estevan received funding: the Envision Counselling and Support Centre received $25,000 for its outreach education and awareness efforts; the Estevan Area Literacy Group received $3,500 for its Love for Books program; and the Estevan Family Resource Centre received $25,000 for program support.

Three projects in Oxbow also received funding: the Expressway Family Centre received $25,000 for community programming; the Friendship Club of Oxbow received $3,000 for its activities; and the Oxbow Arts and Cultural Committee received $3,000 for a music and arts workshop.

Other projects to receive funding through the community grant program were: the nutrition program at Arcola School received $9,500; the family literacy program at the Carnduff Public Library received $600, the Midale Public Library received $8,000 for its Let’s Get Together program; and Stoughton Central School received $6,500 for the breakfast and nutrition program.

Since its first grants in 1996-97, CIF has distributed more than $154 million to over 400 communities throughout the province.

“The CIF plays an important role in our provincial growth by continuing to develop leadership capacity and make innovative investments in community-based projects,” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Gene Makowsky said. “These funds help build sustainable, inclusive communities and support the wellbeing of individuals and families.”

“The programs and initiatives funded by CIF have a profound impact on the quality of life of communities across Saskatchewan,” said Tracey Mann, executive director of CIF.

“We are continually amazed by the dedication and creativity of community leaders and organizations that work so tirelessly to enrich our province.”

The CIF is a special purpose fund created through the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation Act and is governed by a volunteer board.

A complete list of the grant recipients and their projects, as well as information about the Community Initiatives Fund, can be found on the organization’s website.