West Kelowna

The District of West Kelowna reminds those seeking grant-in-aid funding that they must apply before the end of October.

The district has set Oct. 31 as the deadline for non-profit groups seeking financial help heading into 2013.

The district says all grant applications should be directed to the deputy chief financial officer by October 31 of each year to ensure incorporation into the annual budget. All applications must be on the grant application form and accompanied by the following information and documentation:

• The service the organization provides to the community
• The amount of the financial assistance required
• The benefits in the community to result from the grant
• A detailed proposed budget for the current year and a list of all other grants & donations
• Financial statements from the immediately preceding fiscal year

See grant application policy.

“West Kelowna Council recognizes that valued contributions to the municipality are being provided through the volunteer efforts of community organizations and agencies,” the district said in a press release Tuesday. “Grant funding demonstrates West Kelowna Council’s commitment to working with groups that provide these programs, services or projects to the community while, at the same time, recognizing the financial constraints impacting the District’s ability to provide funding.”

The district has increased grant funding in 2012 by about six per cent. For 2012, the district has budgeted a total of $300,566 (229,966 in non-cash grants and $70,600 in cash grants). In 2011, the district doled out a total of $281,173  ($222,973 in non-cash grants and $58,200 in cash grants).