News release

Province Invests in Rural Communities

Economic and Rural Development (Jan. 2009 - Jan. 2011)

The province is making life better for families in rural areas by investing $500,000 to help communities become more competitive and sustainable.

The announcement was made today, Nov. 24, at the 2010 Rural Policy Forum in Tatamagouche by MLA Gary Burrill, on behalf of Economic and Rural Development Minister Percy Paris.

"This new investment will allow Nova Scotians to take the lead in developing new and innovative solutions at the local and regional level," said Mr. Burrill. "It also shows the province believes in the value of our coastal and rural communities and will work to ensure they have a sustainable future."

The investment will go to the Rural Communities Foundation of Nova Scotia. The foundation is expected to distribute grants worth between $5,000 and $50,000 to help local communities to address key social, economic and environmental issues through innovation.

"We have always been very impressed with the wonderful things accomplished in rural Nova Scotia with a small amount of money," said Pam Harrison, chair of the foundation. "In large part, this is due to the creative spirit and commitment of the volunteers who will help move our vision of the future forward."

The foundation anticipates the funding to last two years, and details will be available in 2011.

Funding for this project comes through the Community Development Trust Fund.

The federal government started the $34.9-million Community Development Trust Fund in 2008 to help communities and workers with economic challenges.