Thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada, a number of local and national organizations in the National Capital Region will be able to consolidate their actions for the benefit of official language minority communities.
On Thursday, March 28 Orléans MP Marie-France Lalonde and Ottawa-Centre MP MP Yasir Naqvi announced a 12.5% increase in basic funding to the following organizations: Canadian Parents for French (CPF), French for the Future, Association Canadienne des professionelles de l`immersion (ACPI), Association des collèges et universités de la francophonie canadienne, Reseaux des cégeps et des collèges francophones du Canada, le Regoupement des parents et amis des sourds et malentendants franco-ontariens, Mouvement d’implication francophone d’Orléans (MIFO), Regroupement des gens d’affaires de la capitale nationale (RGA).
This funding, adding up to a total of $392,500 for 2023-2024 will support projects to enhance official language programming.
MP Lalonde and MP Naqvi made the announcement on behalf of Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages.
"More than ever, our government is committed to protecting and promoting our two official languages," said MP Lalonde. "This additional core funding will support key French organizations in Orléans and in our national capital. I am pleased to see this increase particularly at a time where Canadians rely even more of their vital programming and services."
The funding is made possible through the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028. In total, Canadian Heritage invests $62.5 million over five years to increase the core funding for community organizations and to fund certain strategic initiatives.
This increase will enable community organizations to offset the rising cost of living and offer competitive working conditions to their staff. This amount will also be used to extend services, activities, and events; support the financial health of community organizations; and support new initiatives that support equity, diversity and inclusion.
Through the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028, the Government of Canada will support initiatives related to Francophone immigration, economic development, education, justice, health, and arts and culture.
ORLÉANS FARMERS’ MARKET from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Orléans Town Centre Plaza, 290 Centrum Blvd. Browse 130+ local vendors, grab a bite, and discover amazing handmade and local finds. Plenty of parking available.
CUMBERLAND FARMERS’ MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with a variety of local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION
MILLENNIUM PARK BBQ hosted by Orléans South-Navan councillor Catherine Kitts and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe from 1-3 p.m. with live music and entertainment by children’s performers Monkey Rock Music, a free BBQ, and tons of family fun.
