WHITEWOOD RECEIVES CENTENARY FUND MONEY

The provincial government today provided the community of Whitewood with $70,000 for two local projects that benefit local residents. $55,000 will help fund a new special needs van and $15,000 will help develop a new playground at Whitewood School.

"This new bus and playground development are excellent examples of the diverse ways that Saskatchewan people are partnering with government to build on the excellent quality of life in Saskatchewan," Government Relations Minister Ron Osika said. "Transportation is key to a person's ability to access services, work, socialize and live independently within the community. The playground is a lasting legacy to mark our province's Centennial. Saskatchewan's future truly is wide open for all citizens."

"The Town of Whitewood is very fortunate to have a new Handi Van to enable the elderly, people with disabilities, and our nursing home residents to have greater mobility which improves their quality of life," Mayor Malcolm Green said. "Our community is very happy to be able to offer this service to our residents. We thank the Government of Saskatchewan for helping purchase this van."

The Centenary Fund was set up to leave a legacy of Saskatchewan's Centennial for future generations. Leading up to the centennial celebrations in 2005, the government is funding projects that are of provincial or regional interest and develop municipal infrastructure. Under the Centenary Fund Saskatchewan communities will receive more than $2.3 million, over three years, toward the replacement of special needs transportation vehicles.

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For More Information, Contact:

Ann Anderson Government Relations and Aboriginal Affairs Regina Phone: (306)787-8890 Email: aanderson@graa.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306)535-3069