Wedgeport Legion Undergoes Upgrades
News Release
Wedgeport, N.S. - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Repairs and upgrades at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #155 in Wedgeport are nearing completion. Today, Colin Fraser, Member of Parliament for West Nova, announced a combined non-repayable contribution of $40,250 from the Government of Canada. The assistance, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), supports ongoing improvements to the Legion—the largest and oldest community-gathering facility in Wedgeport.
An ACOA investment of $16,250 is being made through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150). Work includes the installation of three heat pumps and upgrades to the washroom facilities—each of which has been completed. Work will also involve improvements to the electrical room and repairs to the building’s steps and roof—projects which are currently underway or will begin soon.
An ESDC investment of $24,000 is being made through the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP). Work includes repairs the roof, new insulation for the ceiling, and the replacement of an existing access ramp and exterior kitchen door.
Together, the upgrades will improve operational efficiency of the Legion, as well as ensure its long-term structural integrity.
The Legion is also making significant contributions to the project through ongoing fundraising efforts including its annual Lest We Forget Lotto 300, a veteran’s calendar, Chase the Ace, community breakfasts, weekly bingos, and a variety of other successful community-based fundraising initiatives. The Municipality of the District of Argyle has also invested $15,000 in the project.
The Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150) supports projects that rehabilitate existing community facilities across Canada. The program is part of the Government of Canada’s celebration of our country’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.
Quotes:
“The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #155 provides a place for people of all ages to gather and honour the service of our brave veterans, to celebrate life’s milestones, and to have fun. The Government of Canada is committed to making public investments that support important community meeting places, like the Legion, for local residents.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“The veterans who gather here at the Legion have rich and storied pasts, which have shaped our country. Repairs to this facility will not only improve its structural integrity and efficiency, they ensure that the Legion is a place that is worthy of the veterans who use it. What is more, they ensure that the surrounding community, who rely on the Legion for events like community breakfasts, bingos and other celebrations, have access to a quality facility that fulfills all their needs.”
- Colin Fraser, Member of Parliament for West Nova
“The Legion truly is a staple in the community. From fundraisers to wedding receptions, and of course veteran activities, nearly all residents have been inside the Legion at one time or another. The Municipality of the District of Argyle is pleased to support such an important community facility and honour the important role it plays in the lives of residents.”
- Aldric d'Entremont, Warden for the Municipality of the District of Argyle and Councillor for District 8
“Three years ago the future of the Legion branch #155 in Wedgeport was uncertain. Today, we are making repairs, upgrades and improvements to our building because of the volunteer work of our members, the tremendous community support, and major federal and municipal funding. Our future is much brighter. It’s important to never forget the ones who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country during the wars and military engagements—Lest We Forget.”
- Gerald MacKenzie, President, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 155
Associated Links:
- Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP150)
- New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP)
- Wedgeport NS Legion Recruitment Campaign 2016 (YouTube)
Contacts:
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
(902) 426-9417
(902) 830-3839 (cell)
Email: alex.smith@canada.ca
Aldric d’Entremont
Warden
Municipality of the District of Argyle
(902) 762- 2195
E-mail: adentremont@munargyle.com
Cyrille LeBlanc
Public Relations
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 155
(902) 663-2908
Email : cyrilleleblanc@ns.sympatico.ca
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
(819) 994-5559
Email: media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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