Provincial grant dollars available for First Nations rinks

A provincial recreational grant is now available for indoor rinks on First Nations. The Community Rink Affordability Grant, launched in the fall, supports operating costs and small capital upgrades at ice pads across the province. “We heard from First Nations communities that this support will help increase activity levels in their communities and improve their overall quality of life,” said Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Kevin Doherty in a news release. “That is exactly what this program is designed for, so we are pleased to expand it to rinks on First Nations.” The news was welcomed by the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations. Said First Vice Chief Kimberly Jonathan in a news release, “This will allow communities to make some upgrades to their rinks and that can only benefit those who use the facilities.”