Richard Froese
South Peace News
The Children’s Resource Council in High Prairie has received the blessing of Big Lakes County for a provincial grant application to renovate The Children’s Centre.
At its regular meeting, July 24, Big Lakes council agreed to write a letter of support to the CRC in its application for funding from the Community Facility Enhancement Program to renovate the kitchen.
CAO David Reynolds recommended council approve a letter of support rather than offer other support for the project.
“While administration believes that a letter of support could be a vital factor in the CRC receiving a grant, a blanket statement of support through volunteer hours, including equipment, should not be agreed to until further information is known,” Reynolds said.
CRC executive director Naal Sharkawi told council the project is vital to better serve expanding programs and services.
“Renovations will increase our capacity to serve the community through the community kitchen and cooking programs, teaching children to cook and community events,” Sharkawi said.
“Our events have an average of 125 people attend.
“Renovations will increase our capacity to host events upwards of 250 guests.”
He notes community partners are important.
“Collaboration and exposing non-profits in Big Lakes County is important to support families, children, youth and seniors to the programs available to them at no charge,” Sharkawi said.
When the CRC hosts community events, he noted it has partnered with Big Lakes Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), the High Prairie Community Beautification Association, the High Prairie Native Friendship Centre, First Nations and Metis Settlements.
“The growth of our program over the past two years has seen a demand for more activities that encompass cooking, nutrition, budgeting and helping parents teach their children to cook,” said Sharkawi, who became the executive director on July 5, 2022.
He added the CRC is becoming a hub in the region for people to learn, engage, access resources, receive donations and have a safe place for children to play.