A $2,500 youth scholarship is up for grabs as proposals are underway this Black History Month for a Halton resident who submits a winning design for a Black Heritage Police cruiser to be used by Halton Regional Police.

Submissions are being accepted until February 28, after which members of Halton police and the black community will pick a winning design.

“The individual who submits the winning design proposal will be awarded a one-time $2,500 youth scholarship to be used personally or by someone of their designation for post-secondary education,” said Halton police Sgt. Ryan Smith.

Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie said police have not been able to attend community events.

“Due to the pandemic, was are unfortunately unable to organize or participate in Black History Month events like we historically have,” Wilkie said in a release.

The intiative is in collaboration with eight Black organizations; including African Caribbean Council of halton, Black Mentorship Inc., the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton.

“This cruiser is a unique way for us to highlight our commitment to working with and learning more about our region’s African and Caribbean community, not only during Black History Month, but year-round,” he said.

All residents of Halton are encouraged to submit design proposals that highlight the rich history of African and Caribbean culture in the region. From contributions to the Underground Railroad, to key figures, and significant historical landmarks, the vehicle wrap could highlight a number of contributions from right here in our own region.

Visit haltonpolice.ca/blackheritagecruisercontest to learn more about the contest and submission criteria, and to submit your design.