It’s time once again for community groups and not-for-profit organizations to get creative and apply for a Haldimand County Community Beautification grant.

Each year, the County makes available $60,000 in grant funding to assist groups with enhancement initiatives which take place on municipal (public) property. The program was created in 2005 in recognition of the importance of beautification to the vitality of any community, as well as the sense of pride and quality of life it fosters for residents and visitors to the County.

Groups may apply for grant funding of up to 50% of the total cost of the proposed project to a maximum of $4,000 per year/per organization. Since its launch in 2006, the Community Beautification Program has resulted in 231 projects worth $2,525,420, while $778,826 in County grant funding has leveraged $1,751,594 in community contributions.

“This program has been a great success for Haldimand County,” said Manager of Community Development and Partnerships Sheila Wilson. “Showcasing our communities makes our towns and villages more beautiful, supports business attraction and retention, and leads to potential new tourism and economic development opportunities,” she contined.

“Each year our community groups impress us with their enthusiasm, innovation and individuality as they develop their applications,” she adds. “We can’t wait to see what proposals come forward this year to continue to enhance our communities and make them even more welcoming.”

Interested groups are encouraged to check out the guidelines and application materials on the Community Partnerships page. Applications are due Thursday, November 1 at 4:00 p.m. at any of the County’s offices in Cayuga, Caledonia, Dunnville or Hagersville.