The Manitoba Ag Days Gives Back Program is accepting applications for this year's grants, which are going to rural community fire departments across the province.

On top of their normal scholarships which are given out each year, Ag Days Gives Back will be giving eight, $2000 Community Safety Grants. Teresa Vallotton, the Communications Coordinator for Manitoba Ag Days, says fire departments were the perfect choice to go with this year's show.

"This year the show will be focusing on both physical and mental health. That's the connection that we wanted to pursue to support the fire departments this year. In the past, last year we had supported various community development projects, and two years ago we supported childcare centers. So as you can see we're trying to reach these funds into the community at large, and support the growth of those rural communities."

Vallotton says there are a few requirements for departments to be eligible to apply.

"These $2000 grants can be used for anything that the department wishes. So it might be something physical like equipment, or it might be something like training. That can all be outlined in the application. There is a requirement for an Ag producer to support the application, there's a requirement that there are community funds matching the request from Ag Days, and the Maximum project value is $50,000."

Everything you need to know about the Ag Days Gives Back Program, including the link to the application can be found here. The application deadline for this year's event is November 15th.