Eleven Abbotsford and two Mission community events will receive nearly $730,000 more in provincial funding, as the NDP doubles their COVID relief grants for local festivals and events.
Local MLAs Pam Alexis (Abbotsford-Mission) and Bob D’Eith (Maple Ridge-Mission) both said the funding will help give local events a boost after several stagnant pandemic years.
“After a very difficult month, we could all use a little good news and something to look forward to,” said Alexis. “Our government knows that these events foster community and contribute to local economies, and we know how important it is to give them a boost after such a tough few years.”
There are some 680 local fairs, festivals and events in 134 communities across B.C that will receive money. The Ministry of Tourism announced the grant program for community events over the summer, which had an Oct. 1 deadline, and could cover up 20 per cent of the event’s budget, up to $250,000.
The NDP government has provided the tourism sector with $225 million since the beginning of the pandemic.
The recipients received funding for showing the economic and social benefit of their events, as well as the amount of local and regional support.
Operational costs, health and safety measures, venue rental, marketing, wages and promotion expenses were all considered eligible uses for the grant money.
“Having spent so many years working in the music industry, I know how it brings us together. I’m glad to work with a government that knows how important arts and cultural events are for communities,” said D’Eith. “This funding will make sure we can all safely enjoy our favourite events in 2022!”
The biggest recipients on the list are the Abbotsford International Airshow, which will receive the full $250,000; Maan Farms Haunts, which will receive $173,400; Abbotsford Agrifair will receive $99,000; Volleyball BC Youth Club Provincial Championships will receive $52,344; and the 35th Annual Mission Folk Music Festival will receive $47,000
Abbotsford events received $673,819 of the funds, while Mission events received $54,640.
See the full list of events and funding below here. (Note: The Shipyards Live event is a North Vancouver event, but is currently listed as a Mission event).
- with files from Tom Fletcher
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