Caitlin Gajdostik, grants co-ordinator for the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta, presents a cheque for $7,500 to Fort Macleod Library head librarian Darlene Hofer and Coun. Christina Fox.
Three Fort Macleod organizations will share in $336,050 in grants awarded last week by the Community Foundation of Lethbridge and Southwestern Alberta.
The foundation awarded grants to 32 organizations through the Community Priorities Fund and the Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life.
“These grants essentially mark the end of our granting season for 2023,” foundation executive director Charleen Davidson said.
“Thanks to the continued generosity of our donors, we were able to support the community of southwestern Alberta with over $1.5-million this year.”
The Empress Theatre Society received $8,150 to buy new stand-alone lighting equipment for concerts, events, and productions.
The Fort Macleod Public Library received $7,500 to buy new computers that will help meet the increased need for library services.
The Willow Creek Community Adult Learning Society and Pincher Creek Community Adult Learning Council received $30,000 to help in the recruitment, education, and training for people who face barriers while seeking employment.
“We are proud to be able to support the projects that help build a strong, healthy community,” Davidson said.
Through the Community Priorities Grants program, $229,900 is being awarded to projects from 26 organizations across southwestern Alberta.
This funding is made possible by private, unrestricted donations given generously by supporters of the foundation since 1966.
The Lethbridge Auto Dealers Association provided an additional $14,650 to 17 of the projects.
The Henry S. Varley Fund for Rural Life will provide $91,500 to six projects.
This fund, established from a bequest by Pincher Creek-area rancher Bill Long and named to honour the memory of his uncle, supports projects whose purpose is to sustain a high quality of life for residents of rural southwestern Alberta.
