Three community non-profits in Ontario region share $1.27 million in provincial funding

Two non-profit organizations in Whitby and another in Ajax are sharing $1.27 million in funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

The funding helps organizations promote active lifestyles, protect arts, culture and heritage and expand opportunities for children and youth across the province.

This year’s recipients include Sunrise Developmental Support Services ($463,400), Alzheimer Society of Durham Region ($461,300) and Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland ($346,000).

“Organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland, the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region and Sunrise Developmental Support Services are pillars of our community, and this support will enable them to improve programs that are essential to the well-being of people in Whitby, Ajax, and other parts of the Region of Durham, making a lasting impact for years to come,” said Whitby MPP Lorne Coe.

Trillium Foundation grants grow every year to support community organizations across the province, expanding and improving the delivery of community-based programs and services Ontario families rely on, with investments of up to $600,000 to support programs and services.

“In Durham Region and communities across Ontario, non-profits are running proven programs that help people build skills, stay active, and feel more connected to where they live,” said Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho. “This investment will help build on the successes of local initiatives, empowering them to reach more people, deepen their impact, and strengthen community life all across the province.”

Through the foundation’s various programs, Ontario has invested more than $857 million in 7,700-plus projects since 2018. These investments have created more than 10,700 full time jobs and generated $1.3 billion in economic benefits for communities across the province.

“Durham Region is proud to be home to non-profit organizations that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Durham Region Chair John Henry. “This investment through the Ontario Trillium Foundation will strengthen essential programs, expand community supports, and help ensure residents across Durham Region can continue to access the services they rely on.”

• “This support will allow the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region to expand and strengthen vital programs that empower people living with dementia and their care partners. We are excited for the impact this funding will have across Durham Region and sincerely thank the province for recognizing the importance of accessible, high-quality dementia care.” – Gillian Barrie, Alzheimer Society of Durham Region CEO
• “This funding allows us to adapt our group mentorship program for girls ages 11–14 to better address the challenges they are facing today, including gender-based violence, online safety, bullying, and mental health. We are thankful to OTF for recognizing the urgency of this work and for standing alongside us as a committed partner in supporting girls’ mental health, safety, and empowerment in our community.” – Melanie Stewart, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Durham and Northumberland Executive Director
• “This investment will allow us to expand our Community Program from three days to five days per week, doubling our capacity and supporting the 36 individuals currently on our waitlist. Through increased community engagement and practical life skills development, including navigating public transit, we will continue to help adults with developmental disabilities build independence, confidence, and a stronger sense of belonging in the Durham Region.” – Amber McKinley, Sunrise Developmental Support Services Executive Director