Red River Mutual is awarding $18,000 to the Ox Cart Station through their sponsorship program, Spruce Up Your Story. The funds given will help repair fundamental aspects of the building, plus update features to make it more accessible.
“Our community members have said how great it is that these kinds of things are getting offered right in town and you don’t have to travel or go to other communities, you can support your own community,” says Rachelle Stanage, Recreation Director for the RM of Sifton and member of the community development board (CDB). “I think to have that building taken away from the community would make us feel a little bit emptier because it’s a space that draws everybody together.”
The building does need repair and upgrades, including creating accessible washrooms, adding a sidewalk and ramp, updating signage, adding a veranda, updating flooring and windows in the main room, plus basic repair and maintenance. A lot of the community still see this building as what it was, not what it is. Changing the look will allow people to see the new beginnings and opportunities this building has. Safety and efficiency are great reasons to see the building fixed up.
The Ox Cart Station was originally a church that since closed and the building was gifted back to the RM of Sifton, who then gifted it to the Community Regional Development Board (CDB). The CDB is excited to bring its residents new community and learning initiatives. In their community space, they plan to offer programming for all ages and demographics. Some of the events they have already begun hosting include Mommy and Me, Summer Camp, Food and Safety Course, and a First Aide and CPR Course. The space also hosts events, such as the local Winter Festival and Family Fun Day, plus, local businesses have been using the space for meetings.
