Community halls get federal funds

Four community halls in Annapolis County are about to get facelifts, thanks to a federal government funding program aimed at senior citizens.

The county confirmed that $78,000 has been received through the New Horizons for Seniors Program that will allow for equipment upgrades and renovations to the community halls in Port Wade, Port Royal, Delaps Cove and Granville Ferry.

Across Canada, the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) helps ensure that seniors are able to actively contribute to and benefit from the quality of life in their communities. In Nova Scotia, 53 projects received funding through the capital assistance component of the program. “The Government of Canada is proud to support seniors in building and strengthening communities across our country,” said Peter MacKay, MP for Central Nova and Minister of National Defence. “These projects will enable the continuation of programs and activities in our area that allow seniors to stay involved in their communities.” “We (council) see volunteers within our districts working countless hours trying to maintain their community halls,” said Annapolis County Warden Peter Newton. “The halls are a gathering place for many community events. Seniors have an opportunity to interact with other community members and the upgraded facilities will allow for additional programming and events.”

Accessing the program began when a local resident approached Councillor Tom Vitiello with questions about the New Horizons for Seniors Program. “I wasn’t familiar with this program so I contacted Service Canada,” noted Councillor Vitiello, District 5. “A representative from the department immediately agreed to arrange a meeting to explain the program’s application process. The meeting attracted community hall members throughout District 5, as well as one from a neighbouring district. The turnout was wonderful, as was the result.”