When it comes to making buildings more eco-friendly, financial support and monetary resources can make a big difference in carrying out long lists of project ideas. Monetary support from government and private groups and organizations gives communities of faith a much-needed boost to make important changes to ensure the longevity of their building and community. Together, these funding opportunities help communities take on small to large building renovation projects, breathing new life into the structures that serve both spiritual and communal purposes.
Some communities are lucky to have multiple opportunities to get funding for projects. Take Transcona Memorial United Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, for example, who have been taking on transformative projects to green their building. In 2022, Transcona United received $30,000 in funding from a United Church of Canada Faithful Footprints grant to replace gas furnaces, transition from three to two, and install heat recovery ventilators. A year after completion, these projects helped Transcona Memorial United reduce its weather-normalized source EUI by 6.2%, GHG emissions by 12.3%, natural gas usage by 12.2%, and electricity usage by 5.5%.
Transcona Memorial United didn't stop there.
Funding for more green upgrades
Building on the momentum, the church will continue its journey towards a greener future. Seizing the opportunity to gain additional funding and fueling their mission to make their building more energy efficient and less dependent on fossil fuels, Transcona Memorial United is about to witness a remarkable transformation thanks to a significant federal investment. On June 20, 2023, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, joined by local officials and community leaders, unveiled plans for an investment exceeding $480,000 supporting an ambitious energy efficiency upgrade at Transcona Memorial United Church.
The project is an extensive building renovation to further reduce the church's environmental footprint. Among the planned improvements are enhanced insulation, the replacement of gas furnaces with energy-efficient air-source heat pumps, and a lighting overhaul. Furthermore, a solar panel array will be installed to reduce electricity costs while contributing to a cleaner energy mix. The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system will also receive an upgrade to enhance air quality and maintain a comfortable temperature. These upgrades are expected to result in an estimated 81.4% reduction in energy consumption and a 33.20-tonne annual decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
This transformative project will be made possible by a federal investment of $484,151 through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program, with an additional $50,000 contributed by the City of Winnipeg.
The GICB program is dedicated to enhancing the places where Canadians work, learn, play, live, and gather by reducing pollution, improving affordability, and creating employment opportunities. Through green upgrades to existing community buildings and new builds in underserved areas, the program ensures that community facilities are inclusive, accessible, and built to last while helping Canada work towards its net-zero emissions target by 2050. The GICB program aligns with Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan: a Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and enhancing resilience to climate change. Over five years, it will allocate $1.5 billion toward green and accessible retrofits, repairs, and upgrades.
An investment good for the environment and community
This project is set to make a substantial impact on both the environment and the community. By investing in this infrastructure, the Government of Canada aims to stimulate economic growth, bolster community resilience, and enhance the lives of Canadians. Minister LeBlanc expressed his pride in supporting Transcona's efforts to build a more inclusive and stronger Winnipeg. This project transcends religious affiliations, fostering a sense of unity and well-being among the community.
Transcona Memorial United’s community gathering space is an accessible and safe facility that serves as a central hub for a wide range of community programs, catering to both seniors and youth. Among the programs that call this space home are the Transcona Seniors Pickleball Club, Transcona Girl Guides, the Alzheimer Society, and numerous others.
Russ Wyatt, City Councillor for Transcona Ward, acknowledged Transcona Memorial United Church's role as a community leader. Beyond religious activities, the church supports various non-religious groups such as the Transcona Council for Seniors, Transcona Food Bank, and youth organizations like the Cubs, Scouts, and Guides. The renovation project will undoubtedly enhance the well-being of countless residents in the Transcona community.
Breanna Drennan-Bilyk, Council Chair of Transcona Memorial United Church, expressed her delight at the positive impact this project would have on the community. She emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in making a meaningful difference.
Stephen McKendry-Smith, Environmental Coordinator at Transcona Memorial United Church, highlighted the organization's long-standing commitment to assisting those in need within the community. The increased efficiencies resulting from this project will enable the church to extend its legacy of service while simultaneously reducing its carbon footprint. This is a vital step towards responsible stewardship of the Earth.
Rev. Carol Fletcher, Team Minister at Transcona Memorial United Church, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from both the government and the community. This project, she noted, exemplifies the incredible outcomes that can be achieved when people unite for a common purpose.
As Transcona Memorial United progresses with additional upgrades, they set a bright example of the possibilities of what can happen when the deep commitment to greening and sustainability initiative converges with not only congregational or regional backing but also governmental support.
Keep an eye on their website for updates on the project.
Faithful Footprints Program
The United Church of Canada’s Faithful Footprints program offers inspiration, tools, and grants to help its faith communities reduce their carbon footprint. With the Church’s commitment to reducing its greenhouse gasses (GHG) emissions by 80% by 2030, this one-of-a-kind program offers up to $30,000 in grants towards energy conservation and renewable energy projects (conditions apply).
Faith & the Common Good is the delivery partner for the Faithful Footprints program. To date, we have engaged over 400 congregations, camps, and buildings across the country. Your participation in the program puts your faith into action and helps the Church reach its target.