$7,500 — and up to $1,500 for each project — are now up for grabs to support new long-term local health initiatives in Vanderhoof.
From now until June 30, the Vanderhoof Healthier Communities Alliance Committee is accepting applications for its community seed grants to establish new projects or groups that aim to promote healthier communities in the north.
Eligible projects will target specific population groups — such as First Nations, children, families, immigrants, men, seniors, or women — and address their relevant health risk factors. Depending on the targeted group, eligible projects may promote healthy eating and physical activity, prevent substance abuse, or decrease chance of injury. Other risk factors to consider for healthy living may involve mental wellness, early childhood development, as well as the environment in which we work, live, and play.
Applications would include a budget outline and explain how the project address the risk factors of the targeted population group, such as making a difference, supporting collaborations and partnerships, improving health, building relationships, reduce health inequities, and building capacity.
The grants will not cover wages, purchases for food bank, short-term events, prize money, as well as individual applicants.
First established in 2012, the committee is formed as a partnership between Northern Health and the District of Vanderhoof to support and develop local initiatives that promote healthier lifestyle choices in the community.
Its first grant of $20,000 was awarded to the Vanderhoof Community Garden in April 2013.
Other past projects that the committee has funded through its seed grants include the Men Shed, Children’s Theatre, Mirrors project, Seniors Connected, as well as fitness equipment in Riverside Park.
Project proposals can be emailed to Hilary Irvine, the District of Vanderhoof’s deputy director of community development, at HilaryIrvine@district.vanderhoof.ca.