PRINCE RUPERT – The Port of Prince Rupert announced this week that the application period for its 2016 Community Investment Fund is open.
The Port earmarks a portion of its annual income to provide financial support for projects or initiatives in the Prince Rupert region that enhance quality of life or contribute to a lasting community legacy. In combination with funding from other businesses, community groups and government agencies, the Community Investment Fund enables millions of dollars in local improvement projects.
“The ability to partner with local organizations and provide new services and equipment that benefits thousands of people every year is something we cherish as an organization,” said Maynard Angus, Community Relations Manager for the Port of Prince Rupert. “In many cases the beneficiaries are volunteer societies, who have already spent countless hours organizing and fundraising to make these projects possible. We look forward to growing our list of partners even further in 2016.”
Since its inception in 2009, the Community Investment Fund has enabled over 30 projects worth more than $4 million in capital costs. The Port’s contributions to these projects exceeded $2.5 million. Each of these projects has filled an important role in supporting sports, recreation, performing arts, health care, education, the environment and other needs in the community. In 2015 alone, the Port contributed over $680,000 to community-driven initiatives.
“When Prince Rupert needed a new dedicated search and rescue vessel, the Port Authority didn’t hesitate to match the funds we raised to make it happen,” said Marko Kessler, President of the Royal Canada Marine Search and Rescue, Station 64 Prince Rupert. “The Orme G. Stuart rescue craft has been invaluable in aiding dozens of calls our volunteers have responded to in the last four years.”
“Through the Community Investment Fund, we were able to get a new, proper sprung stage floor to host hundreds of live performances,” said Crystal Lorette, General Manager of the Lester Centre for the Arts. “We also benefitted from a generous contribution to fix the Centre’s roof, which again was just a matter of providing a short submission the Port Authority detailing the project and its benefit to the community.”
In order for projects to be considered for funding, they must meet a list of prescribed criteria, including demonstrating a meaningful and wide-reaching impact for broad portion of the community they are located. For detailed information about project requirements, submission guidelines and more information on past beneficiaries of the Community Investment Fund, visit www.rupertport.com/community/investment.
