Community Development
The 5 Priority Measures of the Community Development Mandate
Transport
Develop and implement regional transportation plans that will improve accessibility, affordability, and availability of transportation services.
Mental Health
Improve access to mental health and addiction services, and reduce wait times.
« Green Friendships » Project
The “Green Friendships” project promoted intergenerational and inclusive exchanges between students and adults living with mental health challenges or intellectual disabilities. Four schools and three community centers participated in the project, where six groups received hydroponic towers to grow plants together. Students learned the basics of hydroponics and led workshops for their adult partners, while also planning and managing the harvests.
Beyond the educational aspect, social and virtual interactions allowed participants to get to know each other better, reduce social isolation, and raise awareness among youth about mental health realities. This project strengthened community ties, created new friendships, and produced healthy food.
School Nutrition Program
Support children and youth by ensuring that school nutrition programs are available in all schools across New Brunswick.
Approximately 1 in 3 children in New Brunswick experiences food insecurity. This initiative therefore aims to understand the food insecurity situations present in schools in the Northwest region and to provide donations or programs to support them.
To better understand the needs and interests of the education sector regarding this issue, the Community Development sector carried out the following in 2023:
- A tour of all schools in the Northwest region to assess their food needs, interests, and ideas for solutions.
- Presentations and meetings with the NWRSD (Northwest Regional School District) and the Community Development Officers team.
- Agreements and commitments for the launch of the Eat Fresh Northwest program.
Eat Fresh Northwest
Eat Fresh Northwest is a program that provides fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices. Bag sales are held monthly, and plans to support schools and promote local purchasing are underway. This community program not only aims to combat food insecurity but is also an inclusive project.
Inclusion in Sports and Recreation
Work with partners to offer a range of sports, recreational, and leisure activities to low-income individuals.
The growth of the region depends on the well-being of its people. Breaking down barriers that prevent certain groups from participating in sports or recreational activities is crucial for building inclusive communities. Adding components to an existing project or delivering programs, projects, or services that bring together diverse groups to form a single community are ways to make the Northwest inclusive.
Community Connexions
The mission of Community Connections is to reduce the burdens associated with economic poverty in the Northwest. The network collaborates with other stakeholders in the Northwest across various sectors to advance the priority measures outlined in the provincial plan, “Together to End Poverty.”