BC Rural Network
104-197 Second Avenue, North V2G 1Z5 Williams Lake, BC, Canada

An article in the Rural Monitor titled Rural Farmers Market Promotes Food Security describes a program in Allegan, Michigan, that promotes access to Michigan-grown produce through a variety of incentives to low-income, senior, and other nutritionally at-risk populations. The incentives include free transportation and Double Up Food Bucks that match SNAP participants’ spending. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/ru/allegan-farmers-market/

Annual Small City Economic Leadership & Empowerment Summit 2016 will be held November 9, 2016, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM in Little Rock, Arkansas. The theme is Bridging the Gap for Small Communities, and topics include Moving Your Community Outside of the Norm, How to Access Streets Improvement Assistance, and What About Housing? Pre-Registration: $50; Day of Event: $60. For more information contact: Susan Forte at 501-379-1583 or Barbara Graggs 501-379-1556 or Kevin Hunt at 501-683-5216.

Applications for ChangeUp Grants are now open. View this email in your browser APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!... Change Up Grants 2016 (Round 3) DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 26, 2016 For more information, please visit www.inspiritfoundation.org/en/grants APPLY NOW We are looking for projects that: are led by young people age 18 to 34 years old employ creative solutions to address discrimination and prejudice in their communities can be implemented within a one year period Successful applicants will be awarded $10,000 toward project costs.

The Building Vibrant Rural Futures conference is quickly approaching! The conference, co-hosted with the Rural Policy Learning Commons, will take place from October 12-15, 2016 in Guelph. The registration for the conference is now open at the conference website - www.guelph2016.crrf.ca! Early bird registration discounts are available until August 31, 2016. The registration fees are currently posted on the website, including discounts for CRRF members and students. If you have...n't renewed your CRRF membership please do so before registering for the conference. Conference organizers are also seeking funds to assist students, community leaders, and nonprofit organizations in attending the conference. As funds become available, details about how to access the funds will be posted to the conference website. You can also sign up to receive conference updates on the conference website homepage. Further information about the Building Vibrant Rural Futures conference visit www.guelph2016.crrf.ca.

6 Steps to Stay Safe at Festivals and Events What’s your favourite BC outdoor event? There are so many opportunities to enjoy community festivals, music concerts, celebrations and sporting events across the province. Whether attending with your family or with friends, there are things you can do to stay comfortable and safe. For more information - https://www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca//6-steps-stay-safe-festiv