Highland Region Receives Recreation Funding

NOTE: A list of grants awarded in the Highland region follows this release.

Improving a multi-use trail in St. Mary's, Guysborough Co. is one of four projects in the Highland region receiving grants totalling $205,000 to help Nova Scotians stay fit and have fun.

The region's grants were announced today, June 21, through the Recreation Facility Development Program.

"Community organizations and recreation facilities like trails offer Nova Scotians a wide variety of ways to get active and lead healthier lives," said Guysborough-Sheet Harbour MLA Jim Boudreau, on behalf of Health and Wellness Minister David Wilson. "The province is providing nearly $2 million toward 59 projects provincewide so children, youth, and families can stay fit and have fun."

The St. Mary's Trail Association is getting $35,000 to build a bridge on the trail at Ellis Brook.

"This trail connects a number of communities in the area and represents a strong partnership between government, community organizations, schools, local youth and others," said Charlie Hallet, president of the association. "This grants helps us continue developing the trail, which encourages physical fitness, community involvement, and respect for our surrounding natural environment."

The grants help community groups, municipalities and other not-for-profit organizations develop facilities to increase public participation in sport and physical recreation. Examples include renovations to buildings, developing and maintaining walking trails, and building and upgrading fields used for sport and recreation.

The grants support Thrive!, the province's plan for a healthier Nova Scotia. The plan has 34 actions to create supportive environments for healthy eating and physical activity. Learn more at thrive.novascotia.ca .

Following is a list of grants in the Highland region:

• Highlander Curling Club, upgrades and repairs, $10,000
• Lochaber Community Development Association, building a national-calibre rowing facility, $150,000, announced in April by the Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism
• Pictou County Trails Association, building a multi-use trail, $10,000
• St. Mary's Trail Association, building a bridge, $35,000