MP David Tilson Announces Funding for Melville White Church 175th Anniversary Celebration
ORANGEVILE, ON – David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, today visited the Belfountain Heritage Society (BHS) at the Melville White Church, to celebrate the local heritage of Belfountain.
“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in organizations that support local artists and heritage groups, like the Belfountain Heritage Society,” said the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Heritage and Official Languages. “By supporting this organization, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage.
“I’m pleased to be announcing this funding to the Belfountain Heritage Society for such a fantastic project that will not only celebrate the long history of the church in our community, but the many outstanding local artists and performers we have right here in Dufferin-Caledon,” said Mr. Tilson. “I commend the many dedicated organizers and volunteers who have come together to plan and deliver the celebration.”
When asked for comment, Sarah Bohan, President of BHS said, "175 years is a significant milestone in the life of a timber frame structure given our Canadian climate, and unfortunately all too often, the general public's disregard for heritage landmarks in our rush to get rid of the old and build new. Fortunately, due to the love and support of the Belfountain Heritage Society (BHS) in partnership with the Town of Caledon and the Caledon Heritage Foundation, the Melville White Church has weathered the test of time to become a jewel in Caledon's heritage crown." Ms. Bohan then described the activities the funding support will assist, “These funds (from Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program) will help the BHS celebrate this remarkable achievement with free events like the Easter Egg Hunt, ReinKARNation Music Concert and 175th Anniversary Art Show, Tea Party & Commemorative Book Launch, allowing new generations of citizens to discover, use and enjoy the Melville White Church for many years to come!”
The Belfountain Heritage Society has received funding of $13,400 to help present its Melville White Church 175th Anniversary Celebration, which will take place from May 27 to December 23, 2012.
The Government of Canada created the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in September 2007. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.