THE FAIRVIEW—CLAYTON PARK REPORT

January updates from your MLA

Happy New Year!

As we usher in 2023, I'm filled with optimism for the possibilities for our community. It's a time of fresh starts, renewed energy, and the promise of positive change.

As we embrace the winter season, I want to highlight that The HEAT Fund is now open for applications, supporting Nova Scotians in need with home heating costs during the winter months. Our office is always available to assist anyone in completing those applications, ensuring that anyone facing challenges staying warm receives the crucial support they need. Additionally, the Heating Assistance Rebate and the Seniors Care Grant applications are still open, offering support to families struggling with heating their homes and making ends meet.

Navigating government programs can be complex. My office is ready to assist you if you encounter challenges or have concerns about provincial initiatives. We are committed to ensuring that every resident's needs are met, and your input plays a vital role in our advocacy efforts.

Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have concerns, ideas, or need assistance. I'm here to be your voice in the decision-making processes that impact our lives.

Wishing you a wonderful start to the year, and I look forward to our continued collaboration in making our community an even better place to call home.

Warm regards,

Family Literacy Day

Family Literacy Day takes place each year on January 27th to raise awareness about the importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.

Since 1999, thousands of schools, libraries, literacy organizations, and other community groups have taken part in the initiative.

This years Family Literacy Day theme is Let’s have a family party! Make food, sing songs, and play games. The possibilities for learning are endless – and it’s fun when you do it together.

Check out the resources on the ABC Life Literacy Canada page for games and activities to do as a family and find local events happening at Halifax Public Libraries.

Learn More

A CLOSER LOOK 

Top-Priority Topics

Community Engagement

🔎 Community Health Boards (CHBs) across the province are asking what communities need to promote better health and well-being for everyone. Take the CHB survey by Jan. 31st to help improve health & wellness in your community. Learn more...

Accessing Grants and Rebates

💲 The Home Energy Assistance Top-up (HEAT) Fund in now accepting applications. This program supports Nova Scotians facing an emergency situation with home heating cost during the winter months. Learn more...

🏡 Apply for the Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) for help with the cost of home heating this winter. HARP rebates are $600 for each qualifying household. You can apply until March 31st. Learn more...

🗣️ Seniors can apply for help to cover the costs of household services, healthcare services, and home heating costs from the Seniors Care Grant. Grants are $750 for each qualifying household. Apply before March 31st. Learn more...

Celebrating Heritage

📅 This year’s African Heritage Month provincial theme, Our Smiles, Our Joy, Our Resilience as African Nova Scotians, outlines the spirit of perseverance that people of African Descent have demonstrated over the centuries in our province. You can find a list of events on the Black Culture Center website. Learn more...

WHAT'S HAPPENING

Community Spotlight

Independent Living Nova Scotia

Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) supports Nova Scotians with disabilities through programs and services that promote independent living, enabling individuals to live the way they want, stay in control of decisions that affect them, break through barriers that are in the way and develop their skills.

One of the programs offered by ILNS is the Community Access Program (CAP). This program is for youth ages 18 - 24 who identify as having a disability or disabilities. This is a community-based program where participants partake in personal development, self-advocacy and employment skills workshops and weekly recreational activities.

The next intake of CAP starts February 12th. If you, or someone you know is interested in attending this 9-week program, visit their website, or contact the program staff at cap@ilns.ca.

Learn More

What's on in Fairview-Clayton Park?

🍽️ 2nd Fairview Scouts are hosting a fish and chips dinner in support of their fundraising efforts to attend the world jamboree in England in 2024. Pre-purchase your tickets and enjoy dinner and live music at Freeman’s on January 27th. Email Karen at secondfairviewgc@gmail.com for more information. 

💻 Are you a student or young adult looking for a summer job in HRM? You can find updated opportunities currently available on the HRM careers site. Learn more...

💘 The Fairview Legion Branch 142 is hosting a Valentine's dinner and dance on February 9th. Learn more...

📎 Are you an adult or senior eeking some social time and a warm meal? You can join fellow community members for a FREE monthly community meal at The Fairview Resource Centre. Learn more...

🌱 Scotts Canada has announced the Gro for Good program is now accepting applications. This program provides grants to deserving communities, schools, and non-profit organizations seeking to develop sustainable community gardens and green spaces. Learn more...