ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO – The Government of Canada is helping to stimulate economic growth in Elgin County by investing in the expansion of a local greenhouse and garden business centre. Family Flowers Inc. will receive an $82,000 loan to increase their perennial production and create jobs. The announcement was made today by Member of Parliament Joe Preston (Elgin-Middlesex-London), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

“This greenhouse expansion project will not only grow more perennials but it will boost the economy and create more jobs in our community,” said MP Preston.  “Our Government is strengthening the economy, community by community, and we are proud to provide a helping hand to small businesses so that they can expand to meet market demand.”

The 15 year old greenhouse and garden business centre, Family Flowers Inc. of St. Thomas, will add one full-time and one part-time job as a result of their expansion. The project includes increasing perennial production, installing high-efficiency furnaces, and expansion of the parking lot.

This investment is provided through the Sand Plains Community Development Fund which targets community-based initiatives that support regional development, attract and retain people and investment, and stimulate business development and job creation.  Investments are non-repayable contributions for not-for-profit projects designed to explore and develop new and sustainable community and regional development opportunities.

For more information on the Sand Plains Community Development Fund, please visit www.ontcfdc.com or www.sandplains.ca.