June 24, 2002

Community gardens and a project that emphasizes recycling, composting and beautification are among eight projects that will help keep West Broadway green as a result of almost $230,000 in funding from the province.

Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Jean Friesen, lead minister for the Neighbourhoods Alive! program, announced the projects at the Sherbrook Street community garden today.

"Neighbourhood revitalization is about more than just bricks and mortar. In the case of this community garden, it's actually about the space between buildings," said Friesen. "These projects emphasize the development of green space, recreational options for children and environmental improvements that will enhance the lives of West Broadway residents."

The West Broadway Development Corporation (WBDC) is managing these projects:

Community Garden – With this $30,500, the corporation purchased a vacant property at 198 Sherbrook St. to maintain a community garden and provide a possible site for future development.

Greening West Broadway 2002 – A community greening project begun in 2001 will continue with funding of $30,535. This project emphasizes recycling, composting and overall environmental improvement in the neighbourhood.

Planing for Alternative Tomorrows with Hope (PATH) Consultant – This $2,500 was used to engage a consultant to assist with a PATH community planning process in order to update the West Broadway Development Corporation Strategic Plan.

Good Food Box – Funding of $53,000 will be invested to establish a local food buying co-op to provide affordable, accessible and quality produce to neighbourhood residents. A project co-ordinator will be employed for a one-year period in order to establish the co-op.

Small Grants Fund – The WBDC will receive $30,000 to support small-scale community building/connecting projects. Local resident associations, parent councils and community organizations could be eligible for up to $5,000 per project.

Employment Resource Centre Drop-In – A $20,680 grant will support the continued operation of a local drop-in, job search centre.

Housing Development Co-ordination – A $30,406 grant will support the implementation of the WBDC Housing Development Plan through the continued employment of a local housing co-ordinator.

Tune Time/Music Zone – A $30,000 grant will be used to incorporate specialized music programs for children and youth into the programming of local community organizations.

"West Broadway is a vital, lively neighbourhood," added Friesen. "The creative and innovative approach of the West Broadway Development Corporation has a lot to do with that success. This is a place where the sense of community and desire to improve the area are being demonstrated by the commitment of local residents, businesses and community organizations."

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