City funds 23 community events through micro-grant program
By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on July 5, 2024.
news@medicinehatnews.com Block parties, neighbourhood barbecues, social tea and local beautification projects were among a list of 23 events that received funding from the city’s Neighbourhood Connections Micro grant program that distributed more than $11,000 in funds. Applications for the Neighbourhood Connections grant program opened in January. The city says it received 35 applications from residents seeking funding of up to $500 each for a community event or project. The city has a goal of providing up to $10,000 in funding to foster community gathering and activities, however the success of the micro-grant program allowed the city to award a total of $11,350. To collect data, organizers and attendees were asked to fill out a survey, and according the city’s website, an overwhelming number of 98 per cent of respondents said they felt a stronger sense of community with the people on their block or in their neighbourhood because of the event. Funding for this year’s Neighbourhood Connections is now closed, however the city is still accepting applications for Community Arts and Culture Microgrants. Grants for up to $500 are available to promote community arts and heritage and celebrate a diversity of cultures through community-led initiatives or local events hosted by non-profits, small businesses or local artists. The grant is intended to be used by people who are gathering to create or celebrate a common need or shared interest of a variety of artistic forms to celebrate cultural heritage. Applications can be made online through the city’s website under the Government & City Hall tab. 10-9
