Posted on 04/26/2009, 10:33 am, by mySteinbach

Rural communities throughout Manitoba are moving forward this year with 365 locally chosen projects for outdoor upgrades, building renovations and street enhancements partially funded by more than $751,000 through the Hometown Manitoba grant program, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced.
 
“We are proud to partner with Manitobans, helping them to highlight the energy and stamina that thrives in our rural and northern communities,” said the minister.  “I am impressed with the foresight of the community leaders and the dedication of the residents to demonstrate their community pride, making their hometowns the best they can be.”
 
The Hometown Manitoba program provides annual funding in three categories: Meeting Places, Main Street Enhancements and Tree Planting to help communities promote the unique identities and themes that define the vibrancy of their community life, Wowchuk said.
 
Projects this year include improvements to playgrounds, public seating, landscaping in public areas, tree planting and replacement, and storefront enhancements with signage, painting and attractive awnings. The complete list of approved projects for 2009 can be found online.
 
The Hometown program was launched in 2004 and, to date, more than 1,440 projects have been approved.  In the first five years of the program, there have been over 1,000 grants paid out for a total of almost $1.4 million, generating more than $17 million in business and community investments.
 
“Towns and communities show off their vitality with well-cared for streets, buildings, up-to-date signage, parks and green spaces that merge the past with the future,” said Wowchuk.  “Community groups, business owners and residents are the most informed authorities on what their communities need to improve the eye-appeal of their hometown in ways that say ‘we like being here and we invite and welcome you to join us’.”
 
Information about the Hometown Manitoba program and how to apply for funding for next year is available online. Applications are available and can be completed on-line or printed, faxed or mailed to the local GO Team office.