Four Oshawa organizations earn $336,000 in funding from Ontario government

Four Oshawa organizations – from museums to women’s shelters – earned a combined $336,000 in funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s seed grant stream.

The funding will help provide residents with better access to the critical programs, services, activities and spaces the organizations provide.

The Denise House ($99,900), the Canadian Automotive Museum ($88,700), Durham Community Health Centre ($82,500) and Community Living Oshawa/Clarington ($62,500) will use the funds to “build resilience” and enhance their ability to deliver programs and services that directly benefit the community by supporting organizational planning, piloting a new program or building for the future.

“We are grateful for the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s support. This seed grant will allow us to develop engaging, curriculum-linked programs that connect students not only to local history and culture, but also to the innovation and impact of Canada’s auto industry,” said Canadian Automotive Museum Executive Director Alex Miller-Gerard. “By improving access for teachers and building resources that reflect real classroom needs, we will be able to welcome more young people into the museum and strengthen our capacity to serve families for years to come. We’re excited for the long-term impact this will have in our community as we grow our role as a learning hub for automotive history and innovation.”

The Denise House also appreciated the provincial funding, with Executive Director Julia Fiddes saying the money will enable staff to be given the highest quality training. “Your support strengthens our ability to deliver essential, compassionate care to the women and children we serve at The Denise House.”

The Ontario government has invested more than $792 million in over 7,300 projects since 2018. These investments have created more than 9,490 full time jobs and generated $1.1 billion-plus in economic benefits for communities across the province.

“In Oshawa and all across Ontario, non-profit organizations are delivering critical programs that empowers people to learn new skills, pursue rewarding careers and build meaningful connections with their community,” said Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho. “With this funding, Ontario is protecting and supporting communities, while helping to ensure these non-profits can strengthen their foundations and prepare for the future.”

Terri Gray, the Executive Director at Community Living Oshawa/Clarington, said the grant will help her group explore “innovative ways” to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. “With this funding, we can expand programs that foster inclusion, independence, and community engagement – ensuring that people have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. We are grateful for this investment in building a more inclusive Oshawa and Clarington.”

Durham Community Health Centre CEO Francis Garwe said the funding goes a “very long way” in helping the agency provide “the kind of wraparound care and services that are at the heart of community health.”

Ontario Trillium Foundation programs support the arts, culture, heritage, sports and recreation, human and social services, and environment sectors across the province.

“Our government believes local non-profit organizations enrich the lives of people in Oshawa and play an important role in building a strong and supportive community and prosperous economy,” said Whitby MPP Lorne Coe, who was on hand for the announcement.

“Organizations such as Canadian Automotive Museum, Community Living Oshawa/Clarington, Durham Community Health Centre and The Denise House are pillars of our community. This support will enable them to deliver essential programming and better serve the people of Oshawa, making a positive difference for years to come.”