The George D. Lewis Gateways to Opportunity Centre will benefit from renovations 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


May 25, 2022 · Louisbourg, 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 $78,925 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the George D. Lewis Gateways to Opportunity Society. 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 the organization to turn the former George D. Lewis School into a mixed-use facility for the community. The new building will include a business centre and recreation space for all ages. This will help fill the need for office space in the community and help local residents improve their mental and physical health through a variety of health-based programming.

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 like the George D. Lewis Gateways to Opportunity Society Centre in Louisbourg 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

“This inventive project being undertaken in Louisbourg is a great example of community cooperation and tenacity. Safe, shared community spaces allow people to thrive and I am very happy to see the space once again become a community hub.”

-        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:

    • adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines,
    • 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

Lori Selig
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-266-7477
Lori.Selig@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Brett Hanham
Co-Chair
George D. Lewis Gateways to Opportunity Society
902-317-3327
bhanham@gmail.com

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