The Town of Yarmouth has assisted, sometimes giving as much as $16,000 in one year. The Municipality of Argyle has also contributed thousands.
“I’ve been here since 2002 and every year I’ve made application for support and we have been refused every time,” Fevens told the municipal council on Jan. 10.
“I never receive a reason, just a letter saying sorry, not this time. I need to know what I’m doing wrong; why we’re not supported by the Municipality of Yarmouth.”
Fevens says Th’YARC has 600 members and hundreds of volunteers. It has two full- time employees and has been open for 34 years.
“We’re based on volunteers and if we don’t have financial support we can’t keep our doors open.”
She added that Th’YARC has to struggle to raise funds to operate. To make ends meet, she added, the organization needs the support of the three municipalities and the provincial government.
She pointed out that the municipality has provided funds to the Yarmouth YMCA for operational expenses in the past and said she understands sports are important but that they’re not for everyone.
“People are involved in the arts.”
Several councillors heaped praise upon Th’YARC for productions they’d attended in the past.
Deputy warden Stephen Paquette told Fevens Th’YARC is a community asset that “we are all proud of.”
“The key phrase with our grants is to provide ‘meaningful support services.’
“Personally I can see entertainment as being meaningful for sure. I don’t know that I would put it up against physical activity that has so many health-promoting benefits,” he said.
Fevens was quick to respond.
“I believe expanding your mind in the arts and culture is just as important health-wise as physical activity,” she said.
She was told her 2013 request would be reviewed at budget time.
Agree with ms Fevens' comments. The Mun. of Yarmouth should re-consider it's position on this issue. They should at least match the Mun. of Argyle's contribution.