Thanks to the generosity of Fernwood residents, a new small business microloan fund is being established for local entrepreneurs.
The Vining Street block party, which held its fifth annual event last September, collected more than $20,000 through a garage sale, silent auction and donations from local businesses.
Organizers are donating $5,000 from the event to Victoria’s Community Micro Lending, a local non-profit society that aims to build the local economy, reduce local poverty and foster sustainable business.
“We chose the CML loan fund as our 2012 initiative because it gives back directly to the community, while maintaining our commitment to local youth,” said co-ordinator Laurie Rubin.
Preference will be given to entrepreneurs who live in Fernwood, plus students and graduates of Vic High.
For information on the 2013 Vining Street block party, call Rubin at 250-995-2696 or email lrubin@shaw.ca.
dpalmer@vicnews.com