Government of Canada Supports Arts and Culture in Saskatoon

SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN--(Marketwire - March 25, 2011) - Thanks to an innovative program of the Government of Canada, two Saskatoon organizations are enjoying a boost to their fundraising efforts. This was announced today by Maurice Vellacott, Member of Parliament (Saskatoon–Wanuskewin), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

"With Canada's economic recovery still fragile, our Government is focused on creating jobs and economic growth throughout Saskatchewan," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud of this special initiative that encourages private donors to support arts organizations by providing matching funds to their endowments."

"With the support of our Government, private donations to these local arts organizations have increased significantly," said Mr. Vellacott. "Thanks to this ongoing support, artists and arts organizations in Saskatoon can continue to offer us great cultural experiences."

The Government of Canada is providing funding of $27,816 to the Saskatoon Symphony Society and $23,541 to the Station Arts Centre Cooperative. The Saskatoon Community Foundation will manage and invest the total amount of $51,357 for the two arts organizations. Funding is provided through the Endowment Incentives component of the Canada Cultural Investment Fund, which encourages Canadians to donate to professional arts organizations.

This year, the Government of Canada is providing 71 cents for every dollar donated by the private sector. Since 2006, this program has provided $78 million to various endowment funds in Canada, while the private sector has provided $120 million, for a total of $198 million.

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom .)