Be a Light: Beating COVID-19 Together – Trail networks, mental and physical health initiatives to receive grants

 

Staying active and spending time outdoors has an important role to play in helping people manage the COVID-19 pandemic in Bruce, Grey and Huron counties.

Bruce Power recognizes that and is responding with a $300,000 donation through its Be a Light: Beating COVID-19 Together campaign. The company announced last week a $1 million funding commitment to reinvigorate efforts in fighting the pandemic across Bruce, Grey and Huron counties.

From that commitment, $250,000 has been earmarked to support the maintenance and enhancement of the Kincardine Trails and the Saugeen Rail Trail, while also supporting a feasibility study into the development of a trail at Saugeen First Nation. Another $50,000 is being provided to mental health initiatives supporting the tri-county region including:

· The Canadian Mental Health Association- Grey-Bruce branch
· The Westover Treatment Centre recovery support
· The Grey Bruce ‘We CARE’ Project in support of youth mental health

“With the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across Bruce, Grey and Huron, it’s critical that we dig in our heels even deeper and take the necessary precautions to protect the people in our communities,” said John Peevers, Director, Community and Media Relations, and Economic Development.

“That includes doing what it takes to maintain good physical and mental health through a period that is unprecedented in the lives of most people in our region. “It’s our hope that by expanding the safe outdoor options for our families, friends and neighbours to go for a hike, a run, or simply to relax, we will enhance our mental and physical health and emerge even stronger than before.”

Funds for the Saugeen Rail Trail are expected to assist in the environmentally friendly paving of two sections of the trail in Port Elgin and Southampton, while Bruce Power’s contribution will assist with the completion of the Kincardine Trails’ Signature Trail project.

Be a Light: Beating COVID-19 Together is focused on supporting our elected officials, health-care workers, frontline workers and businesses through the tri-county region through public awareness, providing protection, buying local, promoting mental and physical health, and lending a helping hand.