March 20, 2003

Thompson's homeless population and children at a local day care will be among those who benefit from $92,749 in funding commitments under Manitoba's Neighbourhoods Alive! initiative, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Jean Friesen has announced.

"Neighbourhoods Alive! is the provincial government's comprehensive strategy to support the community-driven renewal of neighbourhoods in Thompson, Brandon and Winnipeg," said Friesen. "I am pleased to announce these three projects for Thompson which are funded through the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund."

Conservation Minister Steve Ashton will appear on behalf of Friesen at the Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation's annual general meeting at the Juniper Centre tonight.

"I am pleased to congratulate our main community partner, the Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation, on their progress and accomplishments to date in support of neighbourhood revitalization," said Ashton. "Community development and improving recreational opportunities for youth are part of the province's Northern Development Strategy."

Funding for the three new projects in Thompson includes:

• $50,000 to Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (NRC) for its Small Grants Fund program to support projects under $5,000 that help connect local residents and build on the spirit of community in Thompson. Resident associations, school parent councils and other community organizations can apply directly to the Thompson NRC for small grants in support of projects such as community events, improvements to public spaces and playground enhancements.
• $32,749 for the Thompson Homeless Shelter Inc. for the purchase of furnishings and equipment for its planned new shelter. This contribution will allow the organization to furnish and equip the living and office areas of the shelter.
• $10,000 for the Riverside Day Care for renovations to its facility that will allow for an expansion of operations.

To date, the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund has contributed a total of $364,027 to revitalization projects in Thompson. Neighbourhoods Alive! has also provided $97,700 for the Youth Builders training initiative and $12,000 per year for the Lighthouses youth recreation project, both operated by the Thompson Boys and Girls Club. Thompson NRC is also working with Manitoba Family Services and Housing to develop housing renewal projects under the Neighbourhoods Alive! Neighbourhood Housing Assistance program.

Neighbourhoods Alive! is a long-term, community-based, social and economic development strategy that supports and encourages community-driven revitalization efforts in specific neighbourhoods in Thompson, Winnipeg and Brandon. The strategy focuses on key areas such as employment and training, education and recreation, safety and crime prevention, and housing and physical improvements.

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