Veterans Affairs Canada

May 21, 2009 17:40 ET

Government of Canada Funds Restoration Projects in Southwestern Ontario

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 21, 2009) - The Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, announced today federal government support for projects in southwestern Ontario to honour Veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #388 (Wyoming) will receive funding for the restoration of the Wyoming Cenotaph, which was recently relocated to McKay Park. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #530 (Waterloo) will receive funding for the restoration of the Waterloo Cenotaph and the addition of new bronze plaques. The Municipality of Lambton Shores will receive the funding to help improve the access to the Village of Thedford Cenotaph. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #109 (Goderich) will receive funding for the restoration of the Goderich Cenotaph, located in the Veterans' plot of the Maitland Cemetery.

"Memorials are more than structures of stone and mortar," said Minister Thompson. "They represent sacrifice and honour. They provide community members with a place to gather in recognition of those who served on their behalf. Most importantly, they carry on the importance of remembrance for future generations."

"It is our sacred duty and responsibility to remember and honour the brave service men and women who have always served Canada so selflessly," said Minister Finley. "I am pleased that the Government of Canada is supporting the restoration of these memorials."

The Government of Canada is providing more than $197,760 to 19 community-led cenotaph and monument restoration projects across the country through the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program. Applications to the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program are accepted throughout the year. Non-profit groups and other organizations interested in restoring local memorials may be eligible for funding.

Please visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca for a backgrounder on the projects in southwestern Ontario. Visit the Web site or call 1-877-604-8489 to learn more about the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program or to apply for funding.