The Kootenay Livestock Association was included among three community groups set to each receive $15,000 from FortisBC.
Company officials said the funds are meant to support the work these programs do in their community.
“The Kootenay Livestock Association will use the funds for their Agriculture in the Classroom Program which offers learning opportunities for elementary students about many aspects of agriculture in the Kootenays including growing, raising and importing food, noxious weeds and range issues,” said FortisBC officials.
RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay and Vice Chair Susan Clovechok sent in the nomination.
“It’s vital for children to understand where food comes from. We’re working to expand the program to middle and high school, and ensuring schools have their own gardening supplies such as shovels, rakes and seeds–even a greenhouse,” said Karen Barraclough, Kootenay Livestock Association coordinator. “This funding will help us towards that goal and we’re grateful for FortisBC’s support.”
Two other organizations will also receive some money.
“The North Okanagan Good Food Box will use the funds to ensure more families and seniors in need in the North Okanagan can serve fresh, healthy produce from local farmers at mealtimes,” said FortisBC officials.
“The Ann Davis Transition Society will use the funds to further their life-saving support services for women and children in the Fraser Valley, including two transition houses that provide temporary safe shelter and support for victims of domestic violence. This will help to replace furniture and bedding which is required in 36 of their beds,” FortisBC officials continued.
The funding is part of an annual program, with the company inviting local government officials from across B.C. to nominate a charity or non-profit project.
“FortisBC is committed to the communities where we operate and we designed these grants to support small-scale, grassroots initiatives that address local needs,” said Vanessa Conolly, community and Indigenous relations director for FortisBC. “We truly appreciate the opportunity to advance these inspiring projects that are making such a meaningful difference in the communities we both serve.”