Three Northwest organizations have each received $2,500 grants through the Canada's Farmers Grow Communities program supported by the Monsanto Fund.
Turtleford Library is $2500 richer after area farmer Shirley Maloney of Turtleford nominated the library for a community grant. Turtleford Library is directing the funding to build a metal access ramp at the library's main entrance.
The Paradise Hill Heart and Stroke Foundation received a grant through a nomination by area farmer Allan Furman. The foundation will use the funding to build healthier hearts and minds by bringing life-saving knowledge to communities and by supporting healthcare providers with education and resources, according to a press release.
The Blaine Lake Community Association was nominated by farmers Alan and Pam Lavoie of Blaine Lake.
"We are so thrilled to win this grant from the Monsanto Fund and thankful we were nominated," said Kara Fiala of BLCA. "The funding is very important to a small group like ours and it is making a difference to our program and our community."
The funds will be used to purchase and install a new deep fryer in the community rink kitchen.
The winning entries were drawn last November from more than 160 applications received from farmers across Canada. Winning entries covered a wide range of focus areas from agricultural societies, playgrounds, daycares and school projects to community sporting organizations, libraries and health/service groups. In total, the Monsanto Fund shared $145,000 with charitable and not-for-profit groups that focus on improving the lives of rural residents.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2013 Canada's Farmers Grow Communities program. All it takes to enter is a visit to www.CanadasFarmers.ca where farmers who meet the eligibility requirements may submit one application per charity. Community residents can also make suggestions of worthy charities and not-for-profits for farmers to consider in their nominations. Applications must be submitted by Sept. 30 and all winners will be selected by random draw and notified by Nov. 15.
"The Monsanto Fund grants provided through the Canada's Farmers Grow Communities program allow farmers to get actively involved in supporting their communities," said Trish Jordan, public and industry affairs director with Monsanto Canada. "Growing communities and improving lives is the focus of the Monsanto Fund. It is rewarding to see so many worthwhile, local groups benefitting based on the recommendation of farmers."
