Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
It was that time of year again for the Fort St James Community Foundation Society to make their decision and give grants to those community members who are making a difference.
Community Foundation Treasurer, Joyce Helweg handed out the grants and she was thrilled with this year’s recipients.
“This is the highlight of our year. We are so happy to do this,” Helweg said.
The Fort St. James Community Foundation Society raises funds that are applied to an endowment fund and then invested. The interest is then returned in the form of grants.
This year, a total of $4000 was distributed to four recipients who accepted the grants on behalf of their organizations and businesses.
Mel McCutcheon, who is currently pursuing a horticulture degree, received $1000 to assist in growing her landscaping business, Bare Hands.
Judy Greenaway accepted a grant of $750 on behalf of the Stuart Lake Seniors Association.
Grant funds will support the transportation costs of the Seniors Helping Seniors program where seniors volunteer their time to provide transportation to other seniors for social and health needs.
The program continues to address isolation barriers that seniors face in rural, northern communities.
Helen Frederick, a member of the Stuart Lake Hospital Auxiliary, accepted $1500. The funds will be given to the auxiliary and will go towards purchasing an ultrasound machine for the local hospital.
On behalf of Healthy Minds Community Garden, Greg Kovacs and Sandi Taylor received $750.
The grant will support the creation of an organic community garden complete with sitting area and ornamental plants.
The garden will produce fresh, organic food for participants and local charities and will also provide a safe space for the community, particularly those suffering from mental health issues.
It’s all about building community, reducing isolation and participating in a healthy activity.
