$50,000 in federal funding will support upgrades at playground in Donkin

The Build Communities Strong Fund supports communities across Atlantic Canada by building reliable infrastructure at a speed and scale not seen in generations

July 21, 2026 · Donkin, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Building a strong Canada starts with building strong communities. Canada’s new government is investing in the infrastructure people use every day, helping our communities build, repair, and upgrade our local spaces we all rely on.

Today, Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay, announced a federal

investment of $50,000 for the Donkin Morien Community Association in Cape Breton.

This federal investment will support the replacement of outdated playground infrastructure with modern, accessible equipment, enhancing a vital community gathering place and ensuring residents and visitors of all ages and abilities can enjoy it for years to come.

As the first project announced under this new federal fund in Atlantic Canada, this investment demonstrates how projects big and small help improve the places people use every day. Eligible communities and organizations across the region are encouraged to apply.

Across Atlantic Canada, the Government of Canada is working with provincial, municipal, Indigenous, and private-sector partners to invest in infrastructure that strengthens communities, supports jobs and local economies, and helps them adapt and grow in the face of a changing climate.

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Quotes

“Communities across Atlantic Canada need infrastructure that works, today and for the future. This targeted investment will help get federal dollars directly into rural Cape Breton to build and upgrade the places people rely on every day. Practical investments like this support for the Donkin Morien Community Association, will bring people together, strengthen families, and help ensure this essential community space remains safe, accessible, and sustainable for many years.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

"Growing up in Cape Breton, we all know the importance of places where families gather, children make lifelong memories, and neighbours come together. This playground is more than just equipment—it is a place where community happens. I’m proud that our government is investing in the Donkin Morien Community Association to help create a safe, welcoming space that families can enjoy for generations to come."
- Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Sydney—Glace Bay and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport

"Community spaces bring people together, encourage active living and help create a sense of belonging. By investing in accessible playground infrastructure, we are helping ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, play and connect. We are proud to support this project in Donkin and the positive impact it will have on residents and visitors for years to come."
- The Honourable Brian Comer, Nova Scotia Minister of Addictions and Mental Health and MLA for Cape Breton East

“Investments like this do more than upgrade a playground; they strengthen the heart of our community. When we create safe, accessible spaces for families to gather, play, and grow, we’re building a healthier, more connected Cape Breton for the next generation.”
- Cecil Clarke, Mayor, Cape Breton Regional Municipality

“The Donkin Morien Community Association is thrilled to receive this support in making our playground dreams a reality. We are so excited to see this project come to life in creating an inclusive space for kids to play for years to come.”
- Katherine Snow, President, Donkin Morien Community Association

Quick facts

• The Donkin Morien Community Association is a non-profit organization that was established in 2022 to enhance quality of life by creating spaces that bring people together and support recreation, community connection and growth in rural Cape Breton.

• Additional support for the project includes $191,000 from the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage and $25,000 from the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.

• In April, Prime Minister Carney launched the Build Communities Strong Fund (BCSF). The BCSF delivers funding through three major streams: a provincial and territorial stream, a direct delivery stream, and a community stream. 

• On June 5, the Government of Canada announced that Canada’s Regional Development Agencies will deliver $1 billion of the Build Communities Strong Fund – Local Impact Stream.

• On June 8, Minister Sean Fraser announced the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) will deliver nearly $76 million ($75,986,000) over four years through the Build Communities Strong Fund – Local Impact stream. 

• The Local Impact stream is supporting sustainable economic development through regionally significant projects, such as community buildings, recreation and sports facilities, parks and cultural infrastructure. 

• Eligible applicants under the Local Impact stream include municipal and provincial governments, not-for-profit organizations, and Indigenous-led governments and organizations.