The Village of L’Anse Awarded $15,000 from the Portage Health Foundation to Install New Fencing at the 3rd Street Park

[Hancock, MI] The Portage Health Foundation recently awarded the Village of L’Anse $15,000.00 to install new fencing as part of the Village’s Third Street Park Enhancement Project. The fencing is anticipated to be installed by the end of October.

The Village of L’Anse applied for funding under the PHFoundation’s outdoor recreation RFP. The grant funding was a result of the foundation’s Spring Gala where a total amount of $60,000 was raised. The foundation sought applications focused on programs and resources that promoted outdoor activities, particularly for youth and families. As a result, many organizations submitted worthwhile applications throughout the foundation’s four-county service area.

To encourage outdoor recreation, the Village of L’Anse will be installing new fencing at the 3rd Street Park. According to Robert LaFave, Village Manager, “The park is a special place that is utilized by families and children year round. Additionally, the park has been an important community asset, but has been in need of repairs. The Portage Health Foundation, by making this investment in our community, is ensuring people of all ages will have a safe place to have fun and make memories for years to come.”

According to Kevin Store, Executive Director of the Portage Health Foundation, “We appreciate the Village’s focus on providing safe recreational opportunities for park visitors. By replacing the worn-out fence, the safety of the park is enhanced, which will lead to greater usage by making it a place where friends, children, families, and visitors can come together to grow, play, and connect.”

The PHFoundation believes in providing recreational activities to the area’s residents and visitors. Research has shown that physical activity can lead to better mental and physical health by reducing depression, relieving stress, and improving self-esteem. Additionally, there are the many economic and social benefits by engaging in recreational activities such as the creation of social bonds, livelier communities, and stewardship.

The Portage Health Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that receives and contributes charitable donations, which support the health needs of the community through enhanced philanthropy and community collaboration throughout the counties of Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon.