Local group sees increased demand

It’s no secret that the economy hasn’t been strong in Hawkesbury this past year.
For staff at the Prescott-Russell Community Development Corporation, that means increased demands for grants, loans and consultations.
On November 20, the centre held a press conference to announce its allocation of funding for the next three years.
The centre has been allocated more than a million in government funds to help local businesses in the Prescott-Russell region.
Candie said this represents more funding than in previous years, and will allow the centre to hire another councillor.
The centre will also increase the maximum allowable amount of loans to a business from $150,000 to $250,000.
The change is due to the inclusion of the PRCDC under the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
One recent project for the PRCDC was to help the new Mike Deans franchise to open in Bourget.
Hawkesbury mayor Jeanne Charlebois said she welcomed this news in a difficult economic time.
“It has not been an easy time for Hawkesbury this year or for any municipality,” she said. “This announcement means we have more tools to utilize. Whether someone is starting a business or looking to expand and hire more people.”
The PRCDC centre marked its 20th anniversary in 2006.