October 30, 2003

THOMPSON--Five projects in Thompson will share $106,376 to upgrade play structures, beautify neighbourhoods and address housing issues through Manitoba’s Neighbourhoods Alive! initiative, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Rosann Wowchuk has announced.

"The development of the Thompson Neighbours Housing Plan responds to a need for good housing in northern cities," said Wowchuk.

"The leadership role local residents and other community members are playing in Thompson is exciting," said Conservation Minister Steve Ashton, speaking at Wapanohk-Eastwood School here on behalf of Wowchuk, lead minister for the Neighbourhoods Alive! program.

The Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation received $46,088 towards the Thompson Neighbours Housing Plan implementation. The project’s objectives are to co-ordinate homeowner, tenant and landlord education about available resources, and their rights and responsibilities. In addition, the plan outlines how to work towards improving local housing conditions and developing long-term housing solutions for the future. The corporation is currently working with Manitoba Family Services and Housing and local partners to develop the first projects to be funded under the Neighbourhood Housing Assistance program of Neighbourhoods Alive!.

The corporation also received $18,200 for the Thompson Murals project to create six murals on businesses and apartment buildings in Thompson around the theme Wildlife of Northern Manitoba. The murals will help beautify neighbourhoods in Thompson, enhance community pride and act as a deterrent to graffiti. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Thompson Spirit committee, building owners, northern artists and local youth.

The Mystery Lake School District has received support from Neighbourhoods Alive! for three playground upgrade projects. Deerwood School received $5,000 to support phase II of their playground upgrade. Burntwood School and Wapanohk-Eastwood School received $20,000 and $17,088, respectively, for new play structures for children at the schools and in the local neighbourhoods.

"These projects are visible results of Neighbourhoods Alive!’s commitment to Thompson," added Ashton. "Our government recognizes that the successful revitalization of neighbourhoods in Thompson requires a comprehensive community approach."

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 Winnipeg, Brandon and Thompson. The strategy focuses on key areas such as housing and physical improvements, employment and training, education and recreation, safety, and crime prevention.

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