(L-R) Senator Martin, Paul Mulangu, and Patricia Whittaker with Mukutano.Photo By Edward Sem.
March 27, 2010 was a big day for the Centre of Integration for African Immigrants (CIAI). On behalf of the Minister for Western Economic Diversification, Senator Yonah Martin presented CIAI with a cheque for $275,000 towards the development of a multipurpose activity centre at 811 Carnarvon Street (just next to New Westminster Skytrain station). As a key supporter of CIAI, Senator Martin has been instrumental in championing the work carried out at the Centre. Awarded under the Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RinC), the funds are earmarked for capital construction and renovations as part of the federal government’s Economic Action Plan. CIAI was formed in 2001 to bridge the gap between visible minority immigrant and refugee communities and mainstream society by providing job readiness training, social opportunities, and other services to facilitate integration. CIAI also showcases the contributions of people of African heritage to Canadian nation building during Black History Month and throughout the year. The grant marks an important step towards the achievement of the dream of a fully equipped resource centre. On behalf of the communities they serve, CIAI Executive Director, Paul Mulangu, and Program Manager, Patricia Whittaker expressed excitement about being part of the Action Plan and thanked Western Economic Diversification for opening the door to allow CIAI to continue its important work in the future.
By JF The Afro News New Westminster
