February 6, 2004 -$620,000 in Ontario Trillium Grants to Quinte, Kingston & Rideau areas provide economic impact and build strong communities - Kingston
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) announced today that communities in the Quinte, Kingston & Rideau areas will receive grants totalling $620,000. These grants have positive economic benefits and invest in communities supporting leadership in volunteerism, innovation, cultural initiatives or fuller participation in community life.
"OTF investments foster and build on the power of community organization, and the vision of their leaders and volunteers," said Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Culture. "OTF's partnership with charitable and voluntary organizations provides opportunities for Ontarians of all ages to live better lives and contribute to their communities."
Funding from the foundation helps Ontarians to improve their present, brighten their future, make their communities greener, or bring art to more people. OTF grants contribute to expanded community programs and break down isolation by bringing people together for recreation, fitness or support.
In the Quinte, Kingston and Rideau areas, OTF grants are making a concrete and significant impact. The latest grants include support for sports and fitness activities, which encourage Ontarians to lead active lives and develop a lifelong commitment to healthy living.
The Kingston Striders Speed Skating Club will receive $70,900 over one year to purchase and upgrade equipment in order to enhance coaching, increase participation and provide safe speed skating opportunities to Kingston area residents. The Recreation Outreach Centre will be awarded $50,000 over two years for operational support that will enable the centre to provide and expand sports, recreation and cultural programs to children and youth in Prince Edward County.
"OTF grants increase options and opportunities available in our communities," said Bryce Bell, Acting OTF Grant Review Team Chair. "Commuities across Ontario are rich in talent, creativity and drive, and OTF's support to grassroots organizations helps find local solutions reflecting a diversity of views and needs."
The Ontario Trillium Foundation, and agency of the Ministry of Culture, receives annually $100 million of government funding generated through Ontario's charity casino initiative. OTF builds healthy, vibrant and economically strong communities throughout Ontario by strengthening volunteerism and investing in community-based initiatives.