Summerside Legion to Receive Upgrades
News Release
Canada 150 Program supports interior and exterior renovations, improved accessibility
July 22, 2016 – Summerside, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch No.5 in Summerside is a well-known community landmark. After many years operating under Legion ownership, the building was recently purchased by Murchison Foundation Inc. to ensure its important role in the city as a social hub is maintained. The Legion continues to be active in the space, while the wider community benefits from hosting community celebrations, fundraising events, and meetings.
Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced funding to support renovations to the aging building. Updates will include: replacing the ventilation system, installing a new boiler, repairing the building’s exterior, and creating more accessible entrances.
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, is providing a non-repayable contribution of $133,350 to the Murchison Foundation for this project.
As part of the recently launched Atlantic Growth Strategy, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting infrastructure projects in communities across the region. Communities prosper when all people have affordable and accessible gathering spaces to find support and enrich their quality of life.
Since 1984, the Murchison Foundation has assisted in providing programs and services for people experiencing mental illness through its support of the Prince Edward Island Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA).
Quotes
“The Government of Canada understands the importance of social infrastructure to strengthening communities across the country. This type of investment is a vital piece of a prosperous local economy, providing community members with an inclusive, accessible gathering space for years to come.
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
“With this government support, The Royal Canadian Legion Branch No.5 in Summerside will be able to better meet the community’s needs. Legion members and residents alike will have a rejuvenated space to continue their important activities, serving others and building community ties.”
- Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont
“Through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, Murchison Foundation will be able to revitalize the Summerside Legion building, carrying out much needed repairs and renovations that would not be possible without this support. Murchison Foundation will continue to raise funds for mental health programs on PEI and be responsive to community needs and usage, and it is hoped that a rejuvenated facility will increase the number of social and cultural events held in the building.”
- Les Wagner, Project Development Coordinator, Murchison Foundation Inc.
Associated Links
Contacts
Christopher Brooks
Acting Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569
Reid Burke
Executive Director
Murchison Foundation
executivedirector@cmha.pe.ca
Search for related information by keyword
Hon. Navdeep Singh Bains Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Economics and Industry