Applications are being accepted for grants of up to $30,000 in matching funds for not-for-profit organizations using recycled tire rubber in their projects.
The grants are available to municipalities, registered non-profit community groups or organizations, schools, colleges, universities, First Nations and Métis settlements.
Eligible projects typically include playgrounds, water parks or fitness areas, walkways and running tracks. Applications are open until July 31.
The grants are being offered by Tire Stewardship B.C., a not-for-profit group dedicated to the collection and recycling of scrap tires in British Columbia.
“We’ve worked with community partners from all across B.C. to create useful, beautiful spaces such as playgrounds, fitness parks, and walking paths, all using recycled rubber,” said Rosemary Sutton, executive director of Tire Stewardship B.C.
“In 2022, we provided grants to 13 organizations so that they could upgrade their communities and recreational areas. In total, across the 13 projects, 14,928 scrap tires were used. We can’t wait to see what projects will come to life next.”
Grants will be provided on a matching-funds basis, with the applicant contributing an amount equal to or exceeding the grant requested.
To qualify, the project must be fully accessible by all members of the public and wheelchair accessible.
Only products made in B.C. from B.C. scrap tires that come with a written warranty will be eligible for funding.
Past local projects include the Sidney Wellness Park and the Courthouse Playground in Victoria in 2022 and Maffeo Sutton Park in Nanaimo in 2021.
To date, the grant program has given more than $5.75 million to more than 300 community projects. Since it was first established in 1991, it has recycled more than 100 million tires.
Every year, it recycles the equivalent of more than five million scrap vehicle tires.
• For more information and to apply for a grant, go to https://tsbc.ca/community-events-programs/the-tsbc-community-grant-program.♦
>>> Cram the Cruiser drive aids those in need on West Shore
The West Shore RCMP’s most recent Cram the Cruiser food drive, held at the Langford Real Canadian Superstore on June 17, saw the public donate 40 boxes of food and $165 in cash donations.
The money and food, valued at more than $6,000, will go to the Salvation Army Connection Point Church and Resource Centre, which provides free food and other resources to those in need in the West Shore.
The facility is at 761 Station Ave. in Langford.
• For more information, or to donate, go to saconnectionpoint.ca
