NORTHERN COMMUNITY GROUPS RECEIVE FUNDING

Released on May 20, 2003

Five northern community groups today received grants totalling $23,500 from the provincial government through the Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) for local culture, youth and recreation programs.

"The organizations here today are providing the opportunity for our communities to engage in a variety of programs, from recreation to the arts to education," Cumberland MLA Keith Goulet said on behalf of Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joanne Crofford. "I am pleased to present CIF funding to organizations whose programs support the leadership development of young people and healthy living for Saskatchewan communities."

Goulet presented the La Ronge Public Library with $5,000 for their Summer Writing and Drama Workshops program which is set to deliver a series of writing, drama, storytelling and puppetry workshops to children.

The Northern Recreation Coordinating Committee received $5,000 for their Northern Athletics Camp program. This program will involve athletes, coaches and volunteers, and will feature skill and club development in the areas of sport and recreation.

The Summer Reading Program of the Pahkisimon Nuye?Ah Library System received $3,500 to promote and deliver a reading development program to children in northern communities who do not have access to a public library.

The Town of La Ronge will launch its Summer Fun Program with $5,000 in CIF funding. This program will use recreational activities to enhance physical, social and educational development among youth ages eight to 15.

The Pre Cam Community School received $5,000 to deliver the Sunny Sensational Summer Program to children who are out of school during the summer months. The program consists of a variety of sports, leisure, educational and recreational activities.

"With the long summer holiday there will be a greater demand from the children and youth for organized activities," Pre Cam Community School Co-ordinator Sheila Robb said. "This will be an exceptional summer thanks to the CIF funding and the dedication of our community staff and volunteers."

The CIF was established by the provincial government in 1997 to return a portion of casino profits to communities. Since its inception, the fund has provided more than 2300 community groups with a total of almost $13.5 million.

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For More Information, Contact:

Sandhya Padmanabh Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306)787-4967 Email: spadmanabh@cyr.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306)533-4909