Local Co-ops Award $150K Through Community Spaces

Springfield Heritage Housing Inc. Receives $150K for RM of Springfield Co-op Community Pool Through Co-op Community Spaces

Red River, Beausejour, and Pembina Co-ops are thrilled to announce that Springfield Heritage Housing Inc. has been awarded $150,000 through Co-op Community Spaces for the RM of Springfield Co-op Community Pool. The funding will support the construction of the much-anticipated indoor community pool, in Dugald, Manitoba, as part of the new Dugald Place Assisted Living Residence.

Springfield Heritage Housing Inc. is one of only 14 organizations across Western Canada selected to receive a share of $1 million through this year’s Community Spaces program, which funds projects that protect, beautify, and improve local spaces.

“We are proud to partner with Beausejour and Pembina Co-ops in supporting the development of this much-needed recreational facility in the RM of Springfield,” said Craig Gilpin, CEO of Red River Co-op. “This new space will serve as a year-round hub for residents to gather, stay active, and strengthen community connections.”

The $29 million Dugald Place Assisted Living Residence, now under construction, will feature the Co-op Community Pool as a key public amenity. The pool is expected to be completed in October 2026, offering inclusive aquatic programming for all residents of the RM of Springfield.

“An indoor pool is the most requested amenity in the RM of Springfield,” said Mayor Patrick Therrien. “The Co-op Community Pool, approximately 30 ft x 60 ft in size, can accommodate up to 50 swimmers at a time and will bring seniors and youngsters from the community together.”

The RM of Springfield Recreation Department will offer swimming lessons and community programs, while seniors will enjoy free access during designated hours. The pool is designed for universal accessibility, and it will have indoor connections to both Dugald Estates Housing Co-op and the new Assisted Living Residence, ensuring easy access for seniors.

“We are grateful for the support of the Co-op organization,” said Lesley Thomson, Chair of the Board of Springfield Heritage Housing. “Not only is it an important component of our new Dugald Place Assisted Living Residence, the pool responds to the aquatic needs of over 2,000 school-aged children in the municipality.”

This year’s Co-op Community Spaces program holds special significance, as 2025 has been declared the International Year of the Co-operative by the United Nations. Through initiatives like this, local Co-ops proudly demonstrate their deep-rooted commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.

Since launching in 2015, Co-op Community Spaces has invested $14.5 million in 203 projects across Western Canada, supporting community-led efforts in recreation, environmental conservation, and urban agriculture. The program is administered by Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) on behalf of more than 160 independent local Co-ops in 650 communities.

To learn more about Co-op Community Spaces and view all 2025 recipients, click here.