Cape Breton will benefit from new construction, upgrades to help bring people back to public spaces safely

News release

PS Mike Kelloway stands in a playground surrounded by people of all ages.
Parliamentary Secretary Mike Kelloway is pictured with friends and family of Marcia Fiolek, who dreamed of creating a playground in Dominion, Nova Scotia. Since her passing 26 years ago, the Marcia Fiolek Memorial Community Playground Society has honoured her legacy by maintaining the site for the entire community to enjoy.

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

March 16, 2022 · Reserve Mines, Nova Scotia · 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, Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton—Canso, announced an investment of $274,895 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for nine community organizations in Cape Breton. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

For the full list of projects, please see backgrounder.

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 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 space for vulnerable populations, 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.”
-     Mike Kelloway, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Cape Breton – Canso 

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

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

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