Facilities like St. James’ Church Hall matter so much to our community.
I think about all of the not-for-profits and organizations like the Girl Guides of Canada- to choirs-to food banks- who deeply rely on community infrastructure like churches and legions. These aren’t just buildings- they’re integral infrastructure for our community. They’re our gathering places- they’re our cornerstones.
Atlantic Canada alone- will receive $33.2 million in funding under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure program through ACOA for key community infrastructure improvements.
St. James’ Church operates a food bank in the Hall. Over 30 Dartmouth households are fed from there each week. This food bank is important to our community- as are the outreach programs in which they provide from there. This Hall alone is home to daily after-school basketball programs for youth at risk, children’s Japanese language training, fitness classes, seniors’ programs. This is where so many of our kids have had community music recitals, dances and more. Like I said, places like this- they’re cornerstones.
This amazing facility is due for an upgrade. Renovations are needed to ensure that St. James’ Church Hall can continue to provide a year-round neighbourhood hub for all ages.
This is why I am so pleased to announce a $58,000 non-repayable contribution to Dartmouth’s historic St. James United Church community hall.
They’ll be able to replace exterior siding and install an emergency exit for increased safety and usability.
Heritage and culture are important to Atlantic Canadians. La Société Maison acadienne houses not-for-profit organisations who have a mandate to promote the development and further advancement of Acadian and francophone communities in Nova Scotia. The facility houses the Fédération culturelle acadienne de la Nouvelle-Écosse- and other organizations that play very important roles for the ongoing promotion of social, cultural, and economic well-being of Acadiens and francophones of Nova Scotia.
I am pleased to announce a non-repayable contribution of $31,750 through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program to enable La Société Maison acadienne to carryout necessary upgrades to their facility.
Last but not least I’d like to talk about the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in Canada Unit 349. The membership is generally made up of those who have served in the military, RCMP and other police forces. But like many local facilities- theirs in heavily used by our community for events and gatherings. Our Government strongly believes in commemorating the efforts of those who have chosen to serve and protect our country. 
And I am pleased to announce a $19,000 non-repayable contribution through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program to assist the Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans in Canada Unit 349 with the purchase and installation of new heat pumps.
The heat pumps will improve the efficiency of the building’s heating system which will result in significant energy savings for the organization.
These multipurpose facilities are so important to our community. Canada’s economic success comes from its strong communities and exceptional people, who live and work in them every day. Canadians have what it takes to succeed and our government has both the capacity and willingness to act and create a better future for our children and grandchildren.
By supporting spaces like these, we can bring our family, friends and neighbours closer together- to celebrate and honour our shared commitment to a stronger and better Canada.
