By Daryl Major

Nanaimo Foundation hands out cash to local groups

Aug 17, 2016 | 1:56 PM

NANAIMO — Close to a dozen mid-island community groups have received some much needed funding.

Through its Vital Nanaimo fund, the Nanaimo Foundation distributed 11 grants Tuesday, totaling $70,000.

The Foundation’s Laurie Bienert says they were able to double the amount of the money they handed out this year.

“With support from the Community Fund for Canada’s 150th, which is a national fund that has been led by the Community Foundations of Canada. In addition we have received support from Island Savings to provide three extra grants to the Nanaimo community,” said Bienert.

That extra financial support comes at a great time with some critical needs.

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“Each year, the Nanaimo Foundation receives several grant applications. We’re often receiving five to 10 times the amount that we’re able to actually fund. So doubling the granting capacity is huge for us.”

The groups receiving the most funding are the Nanaimo Women’s Resources Society and the Gyro Club of Nanaimo.

The Women’s Society is planning on developing a Spirit of Place project. The project invites community members to participate in artistic expression celebrating belonging, tolerance, diversity and understanding.

The Gyro Club is using their grant to put towards the Beban Community Bike Park.

A dynamic new piece of public artwork, to commemorate Canada’s 150th anniversary, will be created by an artist thanks to the funding for the Nanaimo Art Gallery.

Here is a list of all of the groups receiving funding:

The Nanaimo Women’s Resources Society – $9,000

The Gyro Club of Nanaimo – $9,000

Nanaimo Art Gallery Society – $8,000

Gabriola Lions Club – $7,000

Government House Foundation – $7,000

Nanaimo Brain Injury Society – $7,000

Nanaimo International Jazz Festival Society – $6,500

Gabriola Community Hall Association – $5,000

Nanaimo Foodshare Society – $5,000

VIU Foundation – $5,000

Literacy Central Vancouver Island – $1,500