Recipients of the Prescott-Russell Community Innovation Grant announced – The Review Newspaper

The selection committee of the Prescott-Russell Community Innovation Grant is pleased to announce that 16 innovative projects will share $140,000 to help address community needs in the Prescott-Russell region.

Selected projects bring a broad range of solutions to address local needs all over the Prescott-Russell region. They include initiatives such as community gardens and fridges; art and music events; healthy cooking classes; communication and outdoor programming for youth; support for mothers; a sports equipment lending library; awareness program for the inclusion of people with disabilities, and many more. A summary of each project is presented online at VolunteersPR.ca.

Projects had to be created in collaboration with the people they are intended to help, and with the aim of enhancing social connections, inclusion and safety, and removing barriers to healthy nutrition; transportation, and mental and physical wellness. A total of 29 proposals were submitted by individuals, small businesses, non-profit organizations and municipalities and reviewed by a panel of community leaders.

“We have received great proposals showing that people really care about their community,” said Sylvie Lefebvre, Executive Director, Prescott-Russell Community Services.” These people see the needs and have innovative ideas for bringing change and making things happen. We’re very pleased to enable these projects.”

The program is funded by the Ontario Social Services Relief Fund and led by Prescott-Russell Community Services in partnership with United Way East Ontario and the United Counties of Prescott and Russell.

“Charities and our communities have had to seek out new, innovative approaches to keep the most vulnerable people from falling through the cracks in Prescott-Russell,” said Agata Michalska, Director, Regional Affairs, United Way East Ontario. “United Way and our partners like Services Communautaires Prescott-Russell are committed to an inclusive recovery that builds resilient communities as they emerge from the pandemic.”

“These projects, led by residents and supporting the most vulnerable people, are a critical step to this vital work.”