New funding announced for youth programs aimed at environmental stewardship
Posted Jul 18, 2026 12:07:54 PM.
Last Updated Jul 18, 2026 12:07:58 PM.
Programs focused on environmental stewardship, social entrepreneurship, arts, science and music are going to be more accessible for youth in Halifax thanks to an investment from the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund.
Hope Blooms, a youth-run social enterprise in Halifax’s North End with a mandate to create innovative approaches to address food insecurity, social inclusion and poverty, has received $138,000 from the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund.
Halifax youth in the North-end will be able to access a better community centre, fit with solar-panels for power to host Hope Bloom’s new programming. The funding will support building design and the purchase of solar panels and heat pumps. Due to a current lack of space, Hope Blooms is having to turn youth away from these programs and has a growing wait list.
“Strong communities are built when young people have opportunities to learn, lead and see themselves reflected in the future around them,” said Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, Twila Grosse. “This investment will help create a welcoming space where African Nova Scotian youth, alongside other youth in the community, can build skills, confidence and lasting connections.”
A sub-group of Hope Blooms, The Hot Cocoa Boys, came up with the idea for the building and raised money through their social enterprise.
