Member of Parliament Blake Richards Announces Support for Didsbury Seniors Heritage Festival

DIDSBURY, AB, Oct. 31, 2013 /CNW/ - Blake Richards, Member of Parliament (Wild Rose), on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Didsbury Seniors Heritage Festival.

"The Didsbury Seniors Heritage Festival is helping to create a sense of identity and pride in the community," said Mr. Richards. "Thanks to festivals like this one, arts, culture and heritage can continue to flourish, enriching the lives of residents throughout Mountain View County."

This funding will enable the Didsbury and District Home Help Association to present the 2^nd Didsbury Seniors Heritage Festival, from June 5 to 6, 2014. Festival activities include musical performances, art displays and heritage talks.

"Our Government understands the important role that local festivals play in supporting the quality of life of our communities and contributing to our collective identity," said Minister Glover. "Organizations like the Didsbury and District Home Help Association allow Canadians from all walks of life to celebrate arts and heritage right in their own backyard."

"Didsbury Home Help Association appreciates the support of the Department of Canadian Heritage. With this support, we can provide a Heritage Festival for our seniors to enjoy. The event is a valuable recognition of the history and pioneering spirit of seniors who settled in Alberta," said Lois Wright, Treasurer of the Didsbury and District Home Help Association. "This funding gives an opportunity for seniors to participate in and give remembrance to their rural and ethnic roots and history."

The Didsbury and District Home Help Association is a non-profit organization that assists senior citizens in the community of Didsbury, Alberta with health, transportation, recreation and other outreach services.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $2,000 through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

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SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

For more information (media only), please contact:

Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Anna Gravelle
A/Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]

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