Province investing over $1 million to fund 9 local programs and services that help deliver critical community programming across Ontario
NEWS
LAMBTON-KENT-MIDDLESEX ― The Ontario government is providing 9 non-profit organizations, municipalities and First Nation communities in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and the London area with $1,086,200 in funding this year through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Capital grant stream. This investment will help improve community spaces, expand access to local programs and activities, and ensure residents can continue to benefit from the services and facilities that make Lambton-Kent-Middlesex a great place to live, work and raise a family.
“Our government is proud to invest more than $1 million in community spaces across Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and the London region. From accessible playgrounds and fitness facilities to cultural centres, veterans’ spaces and shelters supporting survivors of violence, these projects will have a very meaningful impact on residents of all ages and abilities.” said Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “By strengthening the places where people gather, learn, stay active and access support, we are helping build stronger, more inclusive communities across our region.”
OTF’s Capital grant stream helps organizations improve their infrastructure so they can continue delivering programs and services that Ontarians need to thrive. Whether it’s purchasing equipment, building a new space or completing renovations, retrofits or repairs, these grants support projects that are making a difference in Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and beyond.
Organizations receiving funding include:
- Walpole Island First Nation will use a $22,900 Capital grant over 6 months to replace the roof and purchase a freezer and dryer, creating a space where Indigenous youth can learn ethical hunting, trapping, and wetland stewardship.
- Dresden Legion Branch 113 will use a $136,200 Capital grant over 12 months to renovate washrooms and kitchen facilities to improve accessibility, safety, and inclusivity, better serving veterans and community members in a welcoming environment.
- The Municipality of Lambton Shores will use a $175,000 Capital grant over 12 months to replace the outdated playground at Port Franks Community Centre Park with fully accessible structures, ensuring safe, inclusive play for children of all abilities.
- YMCA of Southwestern Ontario will use a $199,500 Capital grant over 12 months to purchase new accessible fitness equipment for Centre Branch YMCA, so participants of all abilities can exercise safely.
- OnTalent will use a $48,000 Capital grant over 12 months to establish a STEM and MedTech learning hub equipped with advanced tools, expanding safe, hands‑on education and equitable access to technology training for youth.
- St. Leonard’s Community Services, London and Region will use a $132,700 Capital grant over 12 months to install an accessible entrance, ramp, door operators, and interior platform lift, enabling equitable access to programs, services, and community connection.
- Clayworx: Ceramic Arts Learning Centre will use a $60,800 Capital grant over 12 months to replace a failing geothermal HVAC system to ensure safe operations and sustain a specialized ceramics facility supporting arts education, community access, and environmental goals.
- Aeolian Hall will use a $111,100 Capital grant over 12 months to replace unsafe flooring and improve HVAC system to enhance comfort, protect heritage assets, and enable expanded, high‑quality year‑round community programming.
- Anova: A Future Without Violence will use a $200,000 Capital grant over 12 months to upgrade HVAC systems at their emergency shelter, ensuring a healthy, stable environment for survivors and their children.
The Capital grant stream is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in community infrastructure, supporting local organizations and creating the conditions for long-term economic growth and prosperity.
“Non-profit organizations across Ontario are delivering critical programming that helps people train for new careers, stay active, learn new skills and connect with their communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our investment will help modernize and improve the spaces these organizations rely on so they can continue delivering the services that strengthen communities and drive local economic growth.”
Please visit OTF’s website for more information.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Kara Carther
Communications Coordinator
Office of MPP Steve Pinsonneault
Lambton-Kent-Middlesex