The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) has awarded community grants to 428 local not-for-profit and charitable organizations in Ontario, totalling nearly $29.5-million.
The foundation’s investment, announced last week, leverages on average $2.25 in financial, in-kind and volunteer contributions for every $1 granted.
Many of the latest grants will assist community organizations in expanding social programs for residents of all ages, to develop literacy and work-related skills, improve community facilities for increased public participation, and boost the local economy.
“The investments made through these community grants support local organizations working to enhance the well-being of all Ontarians including, children, youth, parents and seniors alike,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism and Culture.
In addition to local community grants, OTF is announcing 51 province-wide grants totalling $6.8-million.
Community grants awarded in the Wellington County area, include the following:
– $19,000 over two years to Aberfoyle Farmers’ Market Inc. to create a viable farmers’ market that will support locally grown food, sustain farm-based businesses and improve the economic viability of the rural community by providing support for promotions and staffing;
– $70,300 over 18 months to Family Counselling and Support Services for Guelph-Wellington, as lead organization, to hire staff who will help create and implement an elder-led suicide-prevention project;
– $12,900 over one year to the Grand Valley Lions Club to purchase promotional materials and event equipment, which will assist two annual community festivals hosted by the organization;
– $210,100 over three years to Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis to enhance the organization’s capacity by implementing a comprehensive resource-development strategy;
– $69,000 over one year to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 409 (Frank Lambier) in Palmerston to update and upgrade the Legion building and install energy-efficient windows and a furnace;
– $70,000 over two years to the Waterloo Wellington Children’s Groundwater Festival to educate youth about the importance of water, provide mentorship opportunities with local technicians and promote career opportunities related to water and the environment; and
– $128,600 over three years to the Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin to increase employment opportunities for over 23,000 people with disabilities.
