The Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, today announced $500,000 for new Accessible Communities Grants to help communities undertake projects or initiatives to improve the well-being of residents.

Minister Haggie made the announcement during Well-Being Week 2023 in Marystown at the Walk of Hope trail system. This project is currently under construction through cost-shared municipal and provincial funding. The trail has been named in honour of all cancer survivors who have faced many challenges, and is intended to be accessible to all ages and abilities.

Accessible communities are a key social determinant of health, including ensuring communities are age-friendly and inclusive. Providing better support to community organizations and municipalities in their efforts to make their communities more welcoming and inclusive is aligned with recommendations outlined by Health Accord NL.

The new Accessible Communities Grants will be available to municipalities and local service districts. The application and program guidelines will be launched this fall.

The Walk of Hope trail system is one example of the types of initiatives that communities can undertake to help improve the physical, mental, financial and economic health and overall well-being of residents.

Quotes
“Communities provide programs and services that can positively impact the well-being of residents, and enthusiastically embrace opportunities to enhance their quality of life.  The new Accessible Communities Grants are an example of how we can work collectively to incorporate a well-being approach in programs and policies and make life better in the province.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs

“The new Accessible Communities Grant program aligns with the recommendations of Health Accord Newfoundland and Labrador, which highlights an important link between inclusion and overall health. This new program will also help to create a more accessible and inclusive province where everyone has the opportunity to participate meaningfully.”
Honourable Paul Pike
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development

“The Walk of Hope trail system is an exciting project for the Town of Marystown. We understand how important such services are for the well-being of residents, and appreciate government’s support in making it a reality. We look forward to taking advantage of the new Accessible Communities Grants to further enhance the well-being of the residents of Marystown.”
His Worship Brian Keating
Mayor of Marystown

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