ANKORS is among 31 projects to be funded as part of a $680,000 grant from Columbia Basin Trust focused on children’s development and social service organizations.
ANKORS, which has offices in Nelson and Cranbrook, is receiving $60,000 to promote health and wellness related to substance use, sexual and mental health and LGBTQ2+ issues.
“Alongside many community organizations in the region, the Trust is dedicated to helping all people in the Basin meet their needs and access the resources that will help them address challenges and thrive in their communities,” said Aimee Ambrosone, Columbia Basin Trust executive director, delivery of benefits, in a statement Tuesday.
“These projects will boost the well-being of a wide range of people by addressing a variety of social issues and opportunities.”
Nelson’s Kootenay Kids Society meanwhile will receive $16,650 to support mothers struggling with additions with non-judgemental support circles led by peers and professional facilitators.
The Trust is also granting $2,120 to Kootenay Kids’ meal in a bag program, which helps parents provide a nutritious meal once a week while also promoting community connections and early literacy.
The Nelson and District Arts Council is also using $9,000 from the Trust to fund barrier-free artistic and cultural experiences for adults with developmental disabilities at Bigby Place.
Other local organizations included in the grant include:
• The Healthy Community Society of the North Slocan Valley receives $45,000 to expand the North Slocan Food Program.
• Kaslo’s North Kootenay Lake Community Services Society will use $40,000 to provide monthly meals to those in need as well as enhance the Food Cupboard’s food processing and distribution systems.
• Kaslo’s Hospice Society of North Kootenay Lake is granted $4,200 to train new volunteers in hospice and palliative care.
• East Shore Transportation Society receives $10,000 to provide a low-cost bus service connecting isolated seniors, youth and families with community programs and events.
• Meadow Creek’s Lardeau Valley Community Club will use $1,800 to provide seniors with weekly winter activities as a way of reducing social isolation and improving connections.