The Thompson Neighborhood Renewal Corporation (TNRC) recently held its 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 26, where they reflected on their past year's activities and outlined plans for the upcoming year.
The TNRC has been busy focusing on three key areas: Community Pride, Families First, and Capacity Building. Under Capacity Building, the TNRC, in collaboration with SEED Winnipeg and MAPS, organized a Money Management workshop for up to 24 residents of two transitional houses, Phoenix House for Men and Phoenix House for Women.
In the previous year, the TNRC engaged in a comprehensive 5-year planning process by consulting with Thompson residents and stakeholders to identify areas of need and priority.
Looking back to 2023 into 2024, the TNRC approved grants to 13 organizations in Thompson, totaling $47,619, which leveraged a further $204,551.21 in funding with in-kind support from approximately 212 volunteers.
Under the Families First focus, the TNRC has redirected its two houses to low-income families with necessary support. Through a partnership with the Federal Reaching Home program, over $252,000 was allocated for renovations, with one house already rented out and the second one soon to follow.
In support of the growing multi-cultural community, the TNRC backed MMF's construction of their Gathering Center, celebrated National Indigenous People's Day, and supported the Mall of the Arts celebration of Black History Month. The TNRC also contributed to building organizational capacity by funding a new electric scoreboard at the Burntwood Community School and equipment for Special Olympics. Additionally, in partnership with Marymound, the TNRC supported food security initiatives by funding the delivery of over 40,000 pounds of frozen potato products to 2000 families in Thompson.
Furthermore, the Summer 2023 Community Beautification project saw the painting of two large outdoor murals on the sides of the Strand Theatre and Prince Furniture buildings, depicting Northern and indigenous culture, with a heavy emphasis on the Northern Lights. Additionally, an indoor mural honoring Northern and Indigenous Veterans was unveiled, along with the upgrading of the City of Thompson's Tansi (Welcome) sign.
As this year draws to a close, the TNRC has entered into an agreement with the City of Thompson and the local Community Advisory Board for Reaching Home to operationalize the Coordinated Access process, aiming to assist individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in collaboration with various stakeholders.
The TNRC remains committed to supporting community development and acknowledges the challenges faced by not-for-profit organizations and charities in terms of capacity issues.
"I would like to recognize and thank my fellow board members and our Executive Director Oswald Sawh for the work done by himself and his team. Your efforts and results are very much appreciated," said TNRC Board Chair Member, Dee Chaboyer.
The TNRC also announced the availability of small grants for groups and organizations in Thompson that support community building and connecting projects.
The TNRC's initiatives aim to enhance community pride, promote community gathering, and address various social challenges faced by Thompson residents.
As the year comes to an end, the TNRC remains dedicated to fostering community development and addressing the challenges faced by not-for-profit organizations and charities. The organization continues to prioritize community pride, social support, and community engagement in its future initiatives, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of Thompson residents.
