The Manitoba government is investing more than $1.2 million to support 24 community projects in the Interlake region that enhance active living for seniors, veterans and youth through the From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for All program.

“Here in the Interlake, seniors, municipalities, community organizations and dedicated volunteers are at the heart of building strong, vibrant communities. These grants will provide new energy and support for their efforts,” said Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard. “This program focuses on community projects and demonstrates our government’s continued commitment to strengthening safe and healthy communities across the Interlake and all of Manitoba.”

Approved grants under the program will help with renovations at local legions and community spaces, fund programs that keep young people away from gangs and crime, improve public parks, and support seniors looking to stay active, the minister said.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support provided through the From the Ground Up program,” said Lee Hanson, executive director, Gordon Howard Centre. “This funding is more than just an investment in our centre – it’s an investment in the well-being, dignity, and vitality of older adults in Selkirk and across rural Manitoba. Active living centres like ours are essential hubs of connection, and community, and this support ensures we can continue to offer meaningful programs, activities, and events that enrich lives and foster belonging.”

In 2025-26, From the Ground Up – Safe Healthy Communities for All is investing more than $12 million to support over 200 community development projects across Manitoba.

“The Selkirk Community Renewal Corporation is thrilled to offer the people of Selkirk and surrounding area important community-based programming designed to assist the most vulnerable with accessible and necessary resources,” said Ashley Henry, executive director, Selkirk Community Renewal Corporation. “We are extremely grateful for this funding as it will help expand our programs and services, ensuring we can better meet the needs of residents and create opportunities for community connection, capacity building and revitalization across our city.”

Additional Interlake recipients include:

  • Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 42, facility upgrades, $56,600;
  • City of Selkirk, youth program enhancements, $18,000, and Hydro Park improvements, $39,000;
  • Town of Stonewall, Stonewall into the Future secondary plan, $34,000; and
  • Eriksdale Active Living Council, equipment upgrades, $19,000.

For more information about the From the Ground Up program, visit gov.mb.ca.