Press Releases

The City’s Neighbourhood Grant Program has been successfully supporting locally driven projects that encourage deeper community connections since its establishment in 2016. Recognizing that great ideas can come from community members of all ages, the City of Chilliwack is adding a third grant stream to the program: the Youth Engagement Projects (YEP) Grant.

The new YEP Grant is a matching grant of up to $1,000 that empowers youth ages 13-19 to engage in their community through neighbourhood-enhancing projects and events. As youth work together on their proposed projects, they will have the opportunity to build relationships and leadership skills, develop neighbourhood pride and have fun with their peers.

Five focus areas that define ‘neighbourhood’ will provide a general framework for youth interested in applying: aesthetics, leadership, safety, social offerings and relationships. Proposed projects or event ideas should demonstrate how they enhance their neighbourhood in at least one of these focus areas. When a grant is approved, the applicants will coordinate and implement their project with matching funding, resource assistance and support from City staff.

“The Neighbourhood Grant Program was established through the hard work of this Council, and it has been with great pride that we’ve watched the fruits of our labour grow,” said Mayor Gaetz. “Adding a youth stream to the program is a fantastic way to bring fresh and fun ideas to neighbourhoods around Chilliwack.”

Any youth interested in applying for a Youth Engagement Projects Grant can learn more about the program and apply online by visiting the City’s website at chilliwack.com/neighbourhoodgrants.