Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

“Strong, vibrant communities in Nova Scotia are a critical part of a robust and inclusive economic recovery. Investing in shared public spaces helps revitalize local economies, boosts tourism, creates jobs, and gives residents a place to come together safely. ”
-       The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“From providing resources and support to those who need it most, preserving local history and culture, or being a safe place to gather, community organizations play a key role in strengthening our communities. For these organizations to continue their work, they need strong infrastructure. That's why I’m so proud to be part of a Government that understands the importance of supporting infrastructure projects for grassroots, community organizations like the Port Hood and District Recreation Commission and the Dominion Italian Community Club.”
-     Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso

• The Port Hood and District Recreation Commission owns and operates the Al MacInnis Sports Centre. The arena supports many West Cape Breton Island teams and the Cape Breton West Islanders U-18 Major league, and is home to several festivals and events.

• The Dominion Italian Community Club was built in 1936 as workers from Northern Italy flocked to Cape Breton to work in the coal mines. It has since remained a central part of community life.

• CCRF funding will support two major streams of activity:
  o   adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines,
  o   build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in, and explore their communities and regions. 

• Eligible recipients will include not-for-profit organizations; rural, municipal or regional governments; Indigenous groups and communities; and public sector bodies that provide municipal-type infrastructure. 

• Priority may be given to projects that encourage the participation of underrepresented groups and take into consideration the unique challenges of rural and remote communities. 

• For more information on the application process, eligibility criteria and eligible expenses, or to apply for the CCRF, reach out to your regional development agency.

• Canada’s regional development agencies are continuing to deliver targeted support for economic recovery in the region. Application intake is open through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency for the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Jobs and Growth Fund, Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative and Tourism Relief Fund.

Associated links

• Canada Community Revitalization Fund in Atlantic Canada
• The Port Hood and District Recreation Commission
• Dominion Italian Community Club

Marianne Blondin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Official Languages and of the
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Marianne.Blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Chris Brooks
Communications Director, Nova Scotia
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-830-3839
chris.brooks@acoa-apeca.ga.ca

Lloyd MacDonald
President
Port Hood and District Recreation Commission
902-631-5148
recpresident@porthood.ca

Frankie Canova
President
Dominion Italian Community Club
902-561-6202
fmcanova@hotmail.com

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