SYDNEY, N.S. — The deadline has been extended and the eligibility criteria tweaked for those groups seeking funding support from the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
The changes come in response to the province’s declaration of a state of emergency in March, implemented as part of the measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Such measures included the closure of many businesses deemed non-essential which sent hundreds of workers home.
In addition, crowd gatherings were restricted to only five people which effectively cancelled any plans for community fundraising events.
In a bid to broaden the criteria scope for applicants, council has approved changes to this year’s application process from the municipal Sustainability Fund.
A proposal to widen the eligibility to apply was proposed by the municipality’s CAO Marie Walsh who said non-profit and charitable organizations are on the front lines of our communities in good times and in times like these.
“They play a vital role in building healthy communities by providing critical services that contribute to economic stability.”
Among the changes, there will be no expectation or requirement for groups applying to do active fundraising; grants will not be limited to just the not-for-profit and charitable organizations who are providing services generally delivered or complementing a service otherwise provided by CBRM; applicants must demonstrate a need for funding by providing prior year financial statements along with current up to date financial information; such funding is not a replacement for lost revenue or for wage subsidies but strictly to address shortfalls in operating costs; and applicants are encouraged to seek out other funding sources.
All other requirements and eligibility criteria in the policy shall remain the same along with the limit of $10,000 from the municipality.
The deadline for applications has now been extended to June 30.
