Groups with projects that support social well-being and address social issues in Basin communities can now apply to Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT’s) new Social Grants Program. This is the first time applications are being accepted to the program, and a total of $500,000 is available for project grants.
“Basin residents work hard to address a range of social issues, from connecting with isolated senior citizens to ensuring young families have access to early childhood development programs,” said Neil Muth, CBT President and CEO. “Through our new Social Grants Program, we’re increasing our support of these efforts, and are excited to see what projects come forward in this first intake.”
Among others, eligible projects include ones that: address the Canadian social determinants of health; address the health, well-being and resilience of children, youth, individuals, families or seniors; support the well-being of or community participation by individuals or groups of individuals who face barriers in seeking to participate in their communities, or who have been marginalized; or address or encourage innovation, collaboration and sustainability within the social service sector.
The Social Grants Program is a three-year pilot with an annual granting budget of $1 million. There will be two intakes per year, and granting decisions will be made by the Social Grants Program Selection Committee, a volunteer group of Basin residents that includes individuals who have experience and expertise in the social sector and individuals who have broader community development experience.
For more information about the Social Grants Program, or to download an application form, visit www.cbt.org/sgp. The application deadline is 4 p.m. PDT on October 12, 2012.