By Pepper Parr
July 14th, 2023
BURLINGTON, ON
The City announced the 2023 recipients of the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund (NCMF).
It was a number of years ago but these four lads, working with their parents got funding to improve the ball diamond at the park next to their school.
The fund was created to inspire Burlington residents to actively champion projects in the community to improve, build and strengthen the social contract and enhance the quality of life for everyone.
Bringing neighbourhoods and communities together to make new connections and create a sense of belonging is just as important as the project itself.
The funds objectives are:
- Improve, build and strengthen Burlington neighbourhoods
- Create a greater sense of belonging
- Foster individual well-being and community pride
- Inspire residents to become more actively involved in the community
- Build stronger relationships
Public Pollinator Garden ($3,640)
This project aims to create a public pollinator garden at Port Nelson United Church. The pollinator garden will provide a safe and nurturing environment for pollinators while enhancing the beauty of the area.
Burlington Tennis Club ($5,000)
This project aims to install and provide outdoor public Wi-Fi and web cameras in the west end of Central Park, near the Burlington Tennis Club.
Sycamore Park Neighbours ($9,981)
This project aims to build a bumping space within Sycamore Park in the Palmer community. Bumping spaces are places where people can “bump” into neighbours. It allows informal interactions with community members, meet-ups with friends and forming friendships and connections. The project includes three round metal picnic tables, one of which will be accessible for those who use wheelchairs, and a sensory garden. Sensory gardens are intended to stimulate sight, sound and touch.
On balance this is a good program. On occasion a bit too much goes to well established community groups but on occasation the department takes a chance on something different – the bumping stations could be interesting.
For more information on the Neighbourhood Community Matching Fund, visit burlington.ca/matchingfund.
