City Partnering on Re-Launch of Small Scale Grants

Block party? Relaxing backyard music with neighbours? New neighbourhood mini library? Film night in the backyard for your block?
 
The City of Penticton and Community Foundation of the South Okanagan|Similkameen have partnered to launch special grants that are aimed at helping the community recover from COVID physical distancing orders. 
 
“During the pandemic, the City heard from various residents and community groups, including older adults and seniors, that social isolation was a significant concern during the pandemic,” said the City’s Social Development Specialist, Adam Goodwin. “As the Province relaxes its orders around in-person social activities, the City and Community Foundation have teamed up again to help the community reconnect.”
 
Neighbourhood Small Grants provide micro-grants of $50 to $500 for residents to make their neighbourhoods greater places to live, work and play, by encouraging small-scale projects and initiatives. Activities must meet the current COVID-19 health orders, and must be focused on supporting neighbours reconnecting socially, and/or sharing skills and talents. 
 
“This great opportunity allows the community to take a grass-roots approach to get neighbours connecting, creating and making lasting memories,” explains Community Development Coordinator for the Community Foundation, Kim English. 
 
Grants are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis based on meeting the grant eligibility guidelines and until all funds have been allocated. The final deadline to submit a grant application, if funds are still available, is August 31, 2021. 
 
“I encourage all Penticton residents to find ways to reconnect in a safe and responsible manner as we recover from the pandemic,” said Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki. “Plan a small neighbourhood event that can include seniors living in your neighbourhood, or have a harvest supper to reconnect with your neighbours and community.” 
 
For more information about the grants or to apply, please visit penticton.ca/greatneighbourhoods or call 250-490-2512.
 
The South Okanagan Immigrant and Community Services, Neighbourhood Small Grants, and Vancouver Foundation are also supporting this initiative.