NICKEL BELT – GREATER SUDBURY- The Healthy Communities Initiative is a $31 million investment from the Government of Canada to transform public spaces in response to COVID-19.

Public spaces are the glue to our communities: they enable a feeling of belonging, of social cohesion and encourage our sense of collective identity. COVID-19 has posed challenges in regard to access and use of these spaces in communities across Canada and in Nickel Belt – Greater Sudbury.

In the face of these challenges, communities have been extraordinarily resourceful and resilient in improvising temporary and longer-lasting solutions to the challenges of COVID-19. Many are undertaking work for immediate needs but also thinking about how to build pandemic-resilient spaces for the future. We are seeing new digital solutions, that allow people and communities to feel connected, safe and healthy all while respecting public health measures and norms such as physical distancing and mask-wearing.

The Healthy Communities Initiative will provide funding to a broad range of organizations, including local governments, charities, Indigenous communities and nonprofits, for projects, programming and services that help communities: create safe and vibrant public spaces, improve mobility options, and provide innovative digital solutions.

The application portal opened today for Round 2 at 9:00 AM AST. Applications must be submitted by June 25, 2021, at 5:00 PM PST. Applicants who did not receive funding in round one may re-apply to round two but will not be guaranteed funding. Review committees will start meeting on July 23rd, 2021 and all applicants will receive results by September 16th, 2021, at the latest.

Quotes

"Local communities are on the front lines of the pandemic and best understand their needs. Today, we're inviting local organizations to pitch community-led ideas to improve neighbourhood life during COVID-19 and beyond -- from pop-up bike paths and pathways to community gardens, outdoor art installations and WiFi hubs. The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative will help Canadians and their families enjoy safer, more vibrant and inclusive communities now and into the future." - The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

 “Creating community spaces that promote the health and wellbeing is of utmost importance especially during this pandemic. These funds directly support municipal projects that are key priorities for residents! I encourage all eligible organizations to apply to this second round of funding without delay.” - Marc G. Serré MP Nickel Belt

Quick facts

• The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative was created to help communities adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and create safe ways for residents to access services and enjoy the outdoors.
• Community Foundations of Canada was selected through an open call for applications to implement a national project over a two-year period. Together with its partners, including the Canadian Urban Institute, it will work with pan-Canadian networks to manage the funding process and serve the distinct needs of communities across Canada, including equity-seeking groups interested in applying.

Associated links

Canada Healthy Communities Initiative – Application Portal: https://cfc-fcc.smapply.ca/prog/chci-iccs/
Infrastructure Canada: Canada Healthy Communities Initiative: https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/chci-iccs/index-fra.html

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Contact
Kaylie Dudgeon
Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré MP Nickel Belt
705-897-2222