New Westminster – The City of New Westminster will distribute $648,000 in community grants to local organizations in 2009. Nearly 70 local organizations will receive funding this year to carry out projects that contribute to community life in the City.

“We have a long history of supporting our local organizations and the great work they do right here in New Westminster,” said Mayor Wayne Wright. “We certainly appreciate the hard work and dedication of staff and countless volunteers who leverage these grants into community building projects, festivals and events that make us all proud.”

Seventy-two grants will be awarded in the areas of Amateur Sports ($28,300 allocated), Heritage ($23,000 allocated), Arts & Culture ($67,200 allocated), City Partnerships ($465,000 allocated) and Community ($45,518 allocated.) For 2009, successful grant applicants were required to promote the City’s 150th anniversary theme in their events, programs and initiatives. Only New Westminster based organizations or non-profit societies were eligible for the grants, with all funding provided on a cost-shared basis with the balance coming from partnerships and fund-raising activities.

“The grants provided for this year represent close to 53% of the total amount requested,” said Joanne Edey-Nicoll, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation. “While we weren’t able to fund all of them, we’re very pleased that we could grant funds to so many local organizations that are helping make New Westminster a great community to live, work and play.”

Examples of community grants that will be distributed in the community for this year include $180,000 for Hyack Festival Association; $30,000 for Arts Council for a variety of projects and events; and $795 for Seniors Writers Discovery Group.

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Contact:
Joanne Edey-Nicoll, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation
Tel: 604-527-4629
Email: jedey-nicoll@newwestcity.ca

Blair Fryer, Communications Manager
Tel: 604-527-4688
Email: bfryer@newwestcity.ca