A group of philanthropists has donated $2.7 million to four organizations on Bell Island in an effort to reignite the community’s economy.
The Northpine Foundation made the announcement yesterday in Wabana.
The funding will be split among the YMCA, the local CBDC, the Bell Island Support Network, and the Minor Hockey Association’s Youth Employment program, with each group receiving $500-thousand or more.
Mark Lane, who is with the foundation, believes the cash injection will help turn the island’s economy around and create opportunities for residents who currently commute to town on the ferry every day.
“I always tell people the money in is, it’s impressive, but it’s not the most impressive part. What we really want to see are the outcomes. It’s a downward swing in income support, increased employment, increased housing, increased improvements on social determinants of health, and that’s why we’re here,” he told VOCM News.
“People say, ‘Well, what, why Bell Island?’ Bell Island has an enormous rich history. They’re passionate, they’re ready to rebuild.”
