Garden expansion project will benefit historic African Nova Scotian communities

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Government of Canada fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive as they rebound from the effects of COVID-19

January 25, 2022 · Cherry Brook, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

Today, Darrell Samson, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Sackville-Preston-Chezzetcook, announced an investment of $76,190 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the Akoma Family Centre. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

The support will allow the Akoma Family Centre to expand its existing garden by establishing a hydroponic growing facility to accommodate year-round farming. The stand-alone facility will provide fresh, affordable produce for sale, with a portion of the food being provided to surrounding vulnerable communities. The project will also provide an opportunity for African Nova Scotian youth to be trained on how to grow, harvest, prepare, and sell healthy, fresh food within their community.

The CCRF was launched in June 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada's regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. The Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

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