November 24, 2007
Ucluelet, British Columbia - James Lunney, M.P. (Nanaimo-Alberni), announced today on behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, a contribution of up to $5,000 to the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada Association, Unit 293 (Ucluelet). The funds, provided through Veterans Affairs Canada's Community Engagement Partnership Fund, support an open house at the club.
"We all know the great debt we owe our Veterans," said Minister Thompson. "An open house provides our communities with a chance to gather and ensure that the Torch of Remembrance is kept burning brightly for future generations."
More than 100 Veterans as well as local Grade 12 students attended the weekend event. Activities included a wreath-laying ceremony and a reception. Youth representatives from a local First Nations band presented a traditional dance ceremony.
"Commemoration is important to our communities on the west coast," said Mr. Lunney. "This event is a perfect example of how the community of Ucluelet is showing leadership in remembrance."
The Community Engagement Partnership Fund provides funding to non-profit groups, educational institutions and other organizations delivering remembrance activities and events. Administered through Veterans Affairs Canada's Canada Remembers program, contributions are made throughout the year and encompass both national and community-based projects.
In all, more than $100,000 in funding has been provided to various organizations in support of recent Veterans' Week activities. This includes organizations such as the Uigg-Kinross-Grandview Women's Institute and the Town of Stratford, which received funding for Remembrance Day ceremonies on PEI; the Ottawa Bach Choir for the We Will Remember Them concert; and The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #164 in Yellowknife for a Remembrance Day service and all-night vigil.
To learn more about the Community Engagement Partnership Fund or to apply for funding, call 1-877-604-8489 or visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca.
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Media Enquiries:
Richard Roik Director of Communications Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs 613-996-4649
Maude Desjardins Media Relations Advisor Veterans Affairs Canada 902-626-2453
All Other Enquiries:information@vac-acc.gc.ca
