Emerald Community Centre will benefit from upgrades to help bring people back to public spaces safely

News release

Government of Canada fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive as they rebound from the effects of COVID-19

February 23, 2022 · Emerald, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

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.

Today, Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, announced an investment of $120,200 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the Emerald Recreation Club Inc. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This support will allow Emerald Recreation Club Inc. to install solar panels at the Emerald Community Centre and upgrade the heating, cooling and refrigeration systems to be more energy efficient. This project will reduce emissions and costs, making a more economically and environmentally sustainable community space.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

Quotes

“Strong, vibrant communities in Prince Edward Island are a critical part of a robust and inclusive economic recovery. Investing in shared public spaces like the Emerald Community Centre in Emerald 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

“In rural Island communities, the community centre often serves as a hub of social activity and hosts many community-related events. As a member of the Association of Rural Community Halls, the Emerald Recreation Centre is a vital resource and piece of infrastructure for the community of Emerald. I am pleased to see the Emerald Community Centre receive funding to increase energy efficiency in their operations, helping both the community of Emerald and the environment.”
-       Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque 

Quick facts

  • 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

Contacts

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

Mike Critchley 
Senior Communications Advisor 
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Michael.Critchley@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

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