The Town of Gravenhurst’s community services department is awaiting the results of a funding application to the Ministry of Health Promotion: Sport and Recreation that would help promote recreational opportunities in remote areas including Ryde and Severn Bridge.

“We have identified that programs are limited in certain areas and with this funding we would commence providing sustainable programs for residents and visitors alike,” recreation program co-ordinator Judy Vanderveer recently said in a report to the community services committee.

The funding would also assist in providing initial programs at a reduced cost, enabling families and youth of low income to partake in programs that are usually expensive, she added.

“Residents of lower income residing in remote locations may not register for our current activities in town due to only having one vehicle available,” said Vanderveer. “Offering programs in their area should increase participation and promote healthy, active living.”

Details of the Community in Action Active 2010 grant propose many programs in addition to outreach this fall and throughout 2009. Project expenses total $44,643, while 60 per cent or $26,786 would be covered by the ministry, 25 per cent in-kind, and 15 per cent through sponsorship by community partners and registration fees.

Through the grant application, Vanderveer said the town has requested purchases of audio/video equipment for various fitness programs, a wireless portable microphone for instructors and a variety of sporting equipment to expand programs offered by the community services department. The grant also seeks funding for kayaks, paddles and PFDs for the Gull Lake waterfront that Vanderveer says can be shared with Gravenhurst High School to expand high school physical education programming.

If the grant is successful, the department also intends to offer a five-week summer sports and recreation program for ages nine to 14, a youth kayaking program, a teens in motion and young adults hip hop fitness program, and a “Get Active and Get Hooked” social program for youth and young families in conjunction with Muskoka Family Focus, Take Heart Muskoka and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.