October 13, 1999
(Executive Council)

Funding awarded for demonstration projects

Walter Noel, Minister for Intergovernmental Affairs and MHA for the District of Virginia Waters, presented funding to the MacMorran Community Center and the Community Services Council (CSC). These community groups were awarded funding for demonstration projects under the province's Strategic Social Plan (SSP). The MacMorran Development project received $25,104 in support of their community initiative to investigate new opportunities for employment by teaching life skills and job readiness skills necessary for successful entry into the workforce. Minister Noel also presented a cheque for $23,500 to the Community Services Council for their project Community Capacity Building on line. As part of the Connecting Canadians initiative, VolNet Project is designed to improve the voluntary sector's access to information technology. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is partnering with the CSC to support the work of 200 community groups in providing the CSC with a high speed cable Internet connection and web-site enhancement and maintenance.

The demonstration projects were awarded funding on the basis that they support the goals of the Strategic Social Plan by exploring new ways and means for strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life.

"I congratulate the MacMorran Community Center and the Community Services Council on their initiative to support the work of the province's Strategic Social Plan," said Minister Noel. "The MacMorran Development Project makes the critical link between social and economic development. As the Government's Renewal Strategy for Jobs and Growth develops, this type of career training and support will allow people to take advantage of increasing employment opportunities. The CSC's support of community organizations plays a key role in supporting the significant amount of work volunteers contribute in this province. These volunteers are an integral part of the future social and economic development in their communities."

The Strategic Social Plan, announced by Premier Tobin in August 1998, is bringing together representatives of government, regional health, education and economic boards, Newfoundland Federation of Municipalities and community agencies to address social and economic challenges in their region. The SSP will focus on new and innovative approaches to social development, the coordination of services and link social and economic development efforts. The goal is to support an environment in which citizens participate more fully in their communities.

The plan is being implemented in the Central region of the province and work continues to initiate it in two other regions this fall.

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy Kelly, Strategic Social Plan, (709) 729-3126.

1999 10 13                        4:35 p.m.