Media Releases

Five in the running for ‘A’ Fresh Start Initiative community support grant

Five community groups are in the running for one of the Town of Amherst’s ‘A’ Fresh Start Initiative community support grants.

Representatives from Autism Nova Scotia Cumberland Chapter, the Cumberland African Nova Scotian Association, Eat Plants-Run Wild, the Lillian Allbon Animal Shelter and the Multicultural Association of Cumberland are now preparing the 10-minute presentations they will pitch to the public and council during a meeting scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. on June 13 at the Community Credit Union Business Innovation Centre.

They are vying for a share of the $17,500 that is available in this first of two ‘A’ Fresh Start Initiative grant opportunities that will be staged this year.

Autism Nova Scotia Cumberland Chapter is seeking $2,271 in order to add a Lego Zone to their annual Walk for Autism event that is being held on June 22.

The Cumberland African Nova Scotia Association is requesting $8,000 for a Celebrate Multicultural event scheduled for June 27. The free event will be filled with activities that will let the public experience the rich culture of our community, including food, entertainment and a variety of vendors and displays.

Eat Plants-Run Wild is asking for $4,450, which they will use to host a One Day in Amherst Ultra Fun-Run Event at Dickey Park that will include a unique three, six or 12-hour run. The date for this event has not yet been set.

The Lillian Allbon Animal Shelter is seeking $3,900 to host the Creepy Carnival Monster Bash on Oct.  26. The even will feature live music, entertainment, a children’s dance, face painting, photo booth, magic show, tarot card readings, carnival games and food vendors.

The Multicultural Association of Cumberland has requested $4,958 to promote diversity and multiculturism via several cultural events. The dates of the events have not yet been determined.

Those attending the June 13 meeting, who are 16 years and older, have the opportunity to purchase a ballot for $2. The ballot will enable them to cast a vote on the order in which they think the grants should be awarded. Money raised by the purchase of the ballots will be donated back to the community.

The rankings as determined by the vote will then be presented to the Amherst town council, who members will immediately hold a special session to determine the final placing of the presentations. Council has the final say on the determination of the rankings and the amounts given to those receiving grants.