Ottawa – Today, the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs, announced a new program to help communities commemorate the achievements and sacrifices of Canada’s Veterans, past and present.
“I fully support our Government’s plan to assist communities in their construction of new war memorials. Through this program, our government is once again demonstrating its recognition of the courage and sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our country,” said MP Hawn.
The Community War Memorial Program will see $1 million per year over the next five years go toward the construction of new war memorials in communities across Canada.
The Program will provide funding for up to 50 percent of total project costs, to a maximum amount of $50,000, to non-profit organizations, provinces, territories and municipalities, to assist in their construction of new memorials in Canadian communities.
Eligible project expenses include capital costs, such as building materials, equipment rentals, and landscaping required for accessibility. Each application will be assessed by an external review committee, which will be comprised of representation from national veterans’ organizations as well as conservation experts.
Through this program, the Government of Canada is fulfilling its Budget 2010 commitment to partner with communities across Canada to build memorials that commemorate the achievements and sacrifices made by those who served our country.
This program will be in effect for the next five years. As applications will be considered in the order in which they are received, and as there is a yearly funding limit, it is important to submit requests as early as possible.
For more information on the Community War Memorial Program, or to apply for funding, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca