Facilities Vital to Health
SPORT/RECREATION COMMISSION Facilities Vital to health
The province announced that 87 community organizations across the province will receive $1.7 million in funding for recreation facility development.
The Recreation Facility Development Program, funded by the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission, provides up to one-third of a project's capital funding while communities together with agencies and organizations provide the remainder.
In essence, these small provincial grants leverage many times their value for Nova Scotia community groups and organizations to build and renovate facilities.
In 2000-01, the commission's $1.7 million of funding will support more than $15.3 million of facility enhancement and construction provincewide.
"By leveraging available funding, communities create facilities which promote healthy lifestyles and community development," said Jane Purves, Minister responsible for the Sport and Recreation Commission. "Playgrounds, parks, recreation centres, community sport facilities, trails and arena renovation projects contribute to an increased quality of life."
Recreation facilities provide physical activity opportunities, especially for children and youth who are encouraged to develop life-long fitness habits. At the same time, recreation facilities provide a focal point for social interaction, contribute to the development of positive social activity in youth, and reduce seniors' sense of alienation and loneliness. Facilities also provide employment and generate economic activity.
"Trails are the latest example of government partnering with communities to create recreation facilities that provide Nova Scotians with year-round physical activity and social opportunities, opportunities that generate substantial economic spinoffs from tourism," said Ms. Purves.
The Recreation Facility Development Program assists municipalities and community groups in planning, constructing, renovating, conserving and acquiring facilities for public recreation purposes.