Community projects will be getting access to more funds this spring through Columbia Basin Trust’s popular Community Initiatives and Affected Areas programs.

The Trust Jan. 8 announced a 15% increase from $3.6 million per year throughout the Basin, to over $4.2 million per year for each of the next five years.

“We are pleased to continue our long-standing partnership with local governments and First Nations to identify local priorities and deliver benefits to Basin communities,” said Neil Muth, President and CEO. “The ultimate goal is to support the projects that are important to residents, and we know this increase will help communities do more.”

Started in 1998, these programs are the Trust’s longest running granting programs designed to help address the needs of Basin communities. The Trust distributes funds to local government and First Nation partners once a year, and communities then use various methods—from local council decisions to votes from residents—to decide which projects will receive grants.

“We are very pleased that CBT has decided to increase the funding for this program,” said City of Revelstoke Mayor Mark McKee. “Over the past 18 years, the program has provided significant support for many community projects that could not have proceeded without the funds provided by the Trust, and these projects have really benefitted our residents and improved their quality of life in many ways.”

“From Better Babies to seniors programs, educational initiatives, environmental projects and community hall renovations, the Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs have provided critical support to a broad range of projects that have directly benefited the residents in our communities,” said Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Board Chair Rob Gay. “Every year we are over-subscribed, and the increase in funding is fantastic news as it will allow even more people to benefit from these valuable programs.”

The new five-year commitment totals over $21 million and extends to 2021.

Community Initiatives and Affected Areas Programs: Annual Funding 2016/17–2020/21

All areas receive Community Initiatives funding, while the communities and areas around the Arrow, Kinbasket, Duncan and Koocanusa reservoirs which were most affected by the construction of the Treaty dams, also receive Affected Areas funding.

To learn more about the programs and view upcoming deadlines visit cbt.org/cipaap.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit cbt.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

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