The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is taking applications for the Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs until Jan. 18.

The Community Initiatives Program provides funding to projects identified as priorities within the RDEK.

The Affected Areas program aims to invest in Basin communities affected by dam construction under the Columbia River Treaty. Eligible communities must lie within 10 kilometres of Lake Koocanusa and include Jaffray, Elko, Bayes Lake and Grasmere.

The District of Sparwood has been encouraging organizations planning programs, projects and activities in the upcoming year to apply for funding from the Community Initiatives Program.

“These programs make a critical difference in our communities,” said Tina Hlushak, RDEK acting corporate officer.

“The programs are open to registered non-profit organizations, First Nations, registered schools and local governments. Any private sector proposals must be sponsored by an eligible organization and must clearly demonstrate community benefits.”

Proposals for the programs are accepted annually through the CBT’s website.

All proposals must be submitted by 2 p.m. on Jan. 18 to be considered.

For more information including applications links, head to engage.rdek.bc.ca or the District of Sparwood website.

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