Community Spaces bringing communities back together

Co-ops across Western Canada are helping to create places for everyone with 17 projects funded through the Co-op Community Spaces Program this year.

Co-op Community Spaces is providing $1 million for local projects like a greenhouse to increase access to fruits and vegetables for low-income families in Nanaimo, B.C., an animal therapy program in Lacombe, Alta., a pump track in Regina, Sask., and an interactive heritage education centre in Richer, Man.

“Co-op Community Spaces is just another way that co-ops help build and support their local communities. This year we’re proud to fund a unique group of projects that are going to make a real difference in their communities and the people who visit them,” said Pam Skotnitsky, Vice-President of Strategy at Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL).

“It’s been a challenging year and we’ve all had to stay safe by staying apart, so we’re especially excited to fund these projects that will help bring our communities back together as we come through COVID-19.”

FCL administers the giving program on behalf of more than 160 independent local co-operatives across Western Canada that form the Co-operative Retailing System.

Since 2015, Co-op Community Spaces has provided $9.5 million to 132 projects in three categories: recreation, environmental conservation and urban agriculture. Funded organizations must be registered non-profits, charities or community service co-operatives.

Complete details about all of this year’s recipients are available at communityspaces.ca.