Grandin Theatre Foundation, Inc. – $95,000 to upgrade their 35 mm projection equipment to digital equipment. While 35 mm film was the movie industry standard for over 100 years, in the near future it will no longer be a viable technology. This grant will enable the Grandin to remain competitive and viable in order to show newly released films. The Roanoke Women’s Foundation grant will help to offset the total project cost of $275,000. The Grandin will launch a public campaign to raise additional funding needed to complete the conversion.
Roanoke Community Garden Association – $70,000 to provide funds to design, build and start the Association’s fourth garden, The Mountain View Garden. The garden will be built on the adjacent vacant lot by the Mountain View Community Center. The new garden will serve the Mountain View, Grandin Road, Old Southwest and downtown neighborhoods. The gardens increase locally grown organic food or hundreds of underprivileged and handicapped citizens as well as refugees and immigrants. Residents who register to use a plot are asked to pay $20 and volunteer an hour a week to help maintain their bed and help others. This location provides a flat plot and plenty of space for aspiring gardeners.
Bethany Hall, Inc. – $60,000 to support its “Kitchen Renovation” project for the women in their residential and day treatment substance abuse program. Their kitchen is at the heart of this healing community; last year it produced 10,863 meals and provided an empowering opportunity to create baked goods and treats used in the women’s fundraising efforts. Existing appliances and cabinetry are woefully inadequate. This funding will include upgrading appliances to commercial quality, new cabinets, and a moveable work table. Bethany Hall is only one of two single-gender, long term programs in Virginia that allow children and newborns to remain with their mothers in treatment.
Legal Aid Society of Roanoke Valley – $37,000 to partially fund a staff attorney designated as the domestic violence specialist. The balance of funds needed will be provided through another grant and general funds. Domestic violence is a persistent problem in our communities. Reported cases have risen dramatically (45.9% in 2010). Intervention can save a victim’s life, save her or his home and the home of any children involved, and has an impact beyond those immediately involved. Legal Aid is the only organization in the valley that provides a full range of legal representation to victims of domestic violence.
