FRANCAIS

November 27, 2003

BRANDON—Main streets and public spaces in rural and northern Manitoba will soon be rejuvenated, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk said today, as the details of the Hometown Manitoba program were announced at the Association of Manitoba Municipalities annual convention.

"Many of Manitoba's communities have main street areas and community gathering places that need improvements," said Wowchuk. "When we support community-driven projects and promote the use of local products, services and talents, we can enhance important local amenities, help build community pride and foster local economic activity."

Hometown Manitoba is a new program announced in the 2003 budget and available to smaller rural and northern communities. The program will assist communities and organizations to enhance community gathering places and build exteriors. The program also aims to promote unique identities and themes that define a community.

Hometown Manitoba will offer a total of $500,000 in funding support under two program components, Hometown Meeting Places and Hometown Main Streets Enhancements.

Hometown Meeting Places supports community projects that enhance or establish green community 'main street' areas and public places. Projects may include developing or upgrading outdoor spaces and outdoor public and non-profit facilities accessible to the general community. This may include parks, community gathering places, seniors' and youth centres, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, libraries, museums, public administration buildings and other similar facilities.

Hometown Meeting Places will contribute up to one-third of total eligible project costs to a maximum of $5,000 and requires a partnership involving local government and at least one community group. For Northern Affairs communities, Hometown Meeting Places will contribute up to half of total eligible costs with the balance of the funds being provided by the community group behind the project.

Hometown Main Streets Enhancements supports non-profit organizations, small businesses and co-operative projects that focus on upgrading the appearance of building exteriors, structures and exterior spaces in 'main street' areas. Projects may include building facelifts and upgrades, signage and landscaping enhancements.

Hometown Main Streets Enhancements will contribute up to 50 per cent of total eligible project costs to a maximum of $1,000. Businesses or co-operatives will provide the balance of the funds.

Deadline for the first intake of applications is Feb. 15 for projects beginning in spring 2004. For projects beginning next fall, the deadline is April 15. For a list of eligibility criteria and an application, call Leo Prince at 204-945-2427.

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