Organizations in Humboldt, Manitou Beach and Wynyard are among those benefiting from this year’s round of Community Initiative Fund (CIF) Grants.

A release from the organization explains that CIF’s Community Grant Program provides funding to a variety of projects across Saskatchewan contributing to the wellbeing of communities. These projects provide opportunities for children and youth to gain the knowledge, skills, and supports to develop positive mental health, self-esteem, and healthy lifestyle behaviours, and ensure families have access to support and resources to create healthy and caring environments.

From the Community Initiative Fund’s (CIF) recent October 1st deadline, $1,831,071 in funding will support 138 grants through its Community Grant Program. These grants will benefit an estimated 92,902 participants and contribute to the wellbeing of 55 communities across Saskatchewan.

“The Community Initiatives Fund helps enhance our quality of life in Saskatchewan by connecting individuals, families and communities with vital programming across the province,” Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Laura Ross said. “Our government works closely with the Community Initiatives Fund to support inclusive programming initiatives – and we look forward to continuing this important working relationship.”

“We’re proud to celebrate the work that’s happening across Saskatchewan to support community wellbeing,” shared Tracey Mann, Executive Director of the Community Initiatives Fund. “The resilience of our communities throughout the Covid-19 Pandemic is inspiring, and a true reflection of the importance of community-based organizations in our province. CIF is honoured to support a wide variety of programs, organizations, and communities through the grants awarded.”

In Humboldt, $20,000 was awarded through the Heritage Saskatchewan Alliance for relationship building and reconciliation in Humboldt through Living Heritage. The Association of Manitou Arts and Culture in Manitou Beach received $8000 for its ARTivity initiative. The Wynyard Common Grounds Coffee House garnered $4000 for the Wynyard Talks: Mental Health Initiatives Project. 

CIF is a Special Purpose Fund created through The Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation Act and governed by a volunteer board.