Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops – Thompson – Cariboo stopped in at the North Thompson Agriplex on Mar. 8, to announce $20,052 in funding for community-based projects in Barriere that were inspired by seniors, for two local organizations.
The North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association (NTFFRA) received $13,500 in funding to install automatic door openers, replace doors and purchase benches to allow seniors to continue to attend rodeos, trade shows and community events at the fairgrounds.
“The North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association is most appreciative of this support from New Horizons for Seniors,” stated North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo Association president, Jill Hayward. “Each year thousands of seniors come through our gates from all areas of Western Canada and beyond, we are especially excited to have this funding to make their visit even more welcoming and comfortable,”
MP McLeod announced as well that the Barriere and District Seniors’ Society received $6,552 in funding to replace tables and a barbecue at their hall to allow seniors to continue participating in breakfasts, barbecues, pot lucks, cards and crafts.
“Our government recognizes the valuable contribution seniors have made to our society and the economy. By supporting New Horizons for Seniors Program projects, we are acting to ensure that seniors maintain a good quality of life and continue to be active members of our community,” said McLeod.
The MP also noted that 16 groups in the Kamloops – Thompson – Cariboo riding have received $300,000 in funding from the New Horizons for Seniors Program.
She thanked all of the individuals who write up the grants and submit them for their organizations, and also thanked those organizations who utilize the funds to provide services and improve their communities, not just in building upgrades but in providing services and events to improve the lives of seniors.
NTFFRA grant writer Donna Kibble, noted this organization has received $50,000 in the last three years from the New Horizons for Seniors Program towards making the fall fair facility “senior friendly”.
District of Barriere Mayor Virginia Smith welcomed the MP to the community and thanked her for the support she provides the riding. She noted the municipality especially appreciates McLeod’s “drop-in” visits and ongoing assistance.
Coffee, iced tea, sweets and fresh fruit were then enjoyed by those in attendance, giving people an opportunity to chat with government representatives; MP McLeod, Mayor Smith, and District of Barriere councillors Donna Kibble and Pat Paula.
MP Mcleod said she was very excited about being appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and for Western Economic Diversification; and that she has already started making every effort to recruit doctors to come to rural areas.