Municipality awards 13 micro grants across Mississippi Mills
What would your neighbourhood do with $150 this summer? Would you organize a vintage car show, a pig roast or a quilting bee? Or perhaps gather for a family dance, potluck or soothing sunset yoga? A dozen groups are now planning these activities — among others — thanks to Neighbourhood Micro Grants that were awarded by the Municipality of Mississippi Mills.
To date, $1,950 has been allocated to groups in Pakenham, Clayton, Appleton and Almonte, with the goal of encouraging residents to build community and strengthen connections in their neighbourhoods — and to have fun and tell their stories at the same time! Objectives of the program include connecting and engaging residents of all ages and abilities, sharing their skills and knowledge with the community, building a sense of neighbourhood ownership and pride, and respecting and celebrating diversity.
Events currently being planned span a wide range of activities. Some target specific neighbourhoods, such as a street party on Napier Lane or a summer potluck in the Almonte Mews. Others are seeking a wider audience. For example, on July 2 there will be a Canada 150 Family Dance with the Ryans at the Stewart Community Centre in Pakenham. And on August 18 and 19, an event called Renewing Our Friendship: Reconciliation and the Birch Bark Canoe will take place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Almonte. A new event called Clayton Fest (scheduled for June 22) hopes to be the first of a series of annual celebrations in the village of Clayton. Visit <exploremississippimills.ca> or call 613–256–1077 for more details about these and other nifty neighbourhood happenings.
Recognizing the value of building an inclusive, welcoming and fun community, the Municipality committed $2500 in 2017 to be awarded in micro grants of $150 each (in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday). The program’s criteria and eligibility were publicized, and a group comprising members of the Community and Economic Development Committee, staff and councillors met to review the submissions. Twelve initiatives are now underway, but there are still more funds available to be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. And due to the success of this year’s program, there’s a good chance that micro grants will be offered by the Municipality again in 2018. Contact Tiffany MacLaren at <tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca> or 613–256–1077 x22 to find out how your neighbourhood can apply!
