Simcoe County will be getting a $3.7M boost from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, as part of the province's $46M commitment to 186 municipalities to support Indigenous communities and non-profit tourism, culture, sport and recreation organizations experiencing significant pressures due to COVID-19.
The funds will be dispersed among nine organizations across the county, in particular to sport and recreation facilities and local legions for upgrades and improvements.
“COVID-19 has been a challenge for so many not-for-profit tourism, culture, sport, and recreation organizations, and I am proud that the government is supporting their recovery through the Community Building Fund,” said Jill Dunlop MPP for Simcoe North.
The news was shared earlier this afternoon via a virtual funding announcement with area mayors and MPPs along with Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Lisa MacLeod.
In total, the province’s Community Building Fund is investing $105 million to support community arts and culture, heritage, tourism, sport and recreation organizations that are experiencing significant financial pressures due to COVID-19. The fund is administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through Operating and Capital streams. The Capital stream is providing organizations across the province with support for construction, renovations and upgrades to local projects.
"This is excellent news for our region," said Dunlop. "We are incredibly proud to join you all virtually in recognizing such an important investment for the County of Simcoe."
Bradford's Bob Fallis Arena will be receiving $84,000 of the funds for much-needed upgrades and pipe replacement for the refrigeration system and to increase the overall lifespan of the facility.
The facility was built in 1996 and sees 50,000 guests come through the doors every year.
“The Bob Fallis Arena is an integral part of the Bradford community, one that has been a home to sporting and local events for generations,” said Caroline Mulroney, MPP for York – Simcoe. “Funding like this will go a long way in our community."
The Town of Innisfil will be receiving $324,700 to replace the cooling system, fire alarms, roof, interior and exterior doors, flooring and ceiling tiles throughout the South Innisfil Community Centre.
Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin shared a large 'Thank You' card made by the local Lefroy Icebreakers team, who utilize the centre, to show their appreciation for the grant.
"It just means so much to us so thank you," said Dollin.
Dollin was also pleased to hear the YMCA in Innisfil will be getting $241,300 to repair the liner of the leisure pool.
"We are so thrilled to get that pool back open," said Dollin.
"The Town of Innisfil has really helped lift up the community when it comes to sports and recreation," noted Barrie-Innisfil MPP Khanjin, "And during COVID, we need to focus on that holistic part of health, and we need people to get out and focus on their mental health."
The Township of Springwater will be receiving $200,000 for the creation of an accessible and inclusive playground and walking path at Homer Barrett Park.
“This funding stream is meant to sustain in the short term and is also an investment into the long term. It’s to help ensure community services we rely on and enjoy are available for years to come,” said Doug Downey, MPP for Barrie-Springwater-Oro. “Springwater is a rapidly growing community and a beautiful place to call home. It’s wonderful to see this funding flowing into our region, benefitting local families and the municipality as a whole. Governments working together to achieve the best outcomes for residents is the way back onto the road to economic recovery and a brighter future.”
The Royal Canada Legion Branch 488 Brechin-Mara will be receiving $108,000; The Township of Tay, $316,500; The Township of Severn, $110,000, The Town of Penetanguishene, $500,00; and The Town of Midland $287,100.
In Midland, the funds will be used to resurface the tennis courts in Little Lake Park and the basketball court in Bayview Park.
The funds received for Tay Township will be used to upgrade the Tay Community Rink, including the conversion of storage rooms to change rooms, with additional washrooms and showers for guests, noting it will provide further options to support mixed-gender usage, making the facility welcoming and available to individuals of all gender identities.
"Thank you for delivering this great news and your continued support of Tay Township," said Mayor Ted Walker.
Mayor of Penetanguishene Doug Leroux noted the funds received for the town will go towards the replacement of the roof of the arena at the Penetanguishene Memorial Centre.
"Providing this capital funding allows the town to ensure that our community centre remains a safe and secure place for years to come and we are extremely grateful," said Leroux.
Mayor Mike Burkett from Severn Township said the $110,000 grant for the town will be used to improve accessibility by installing two sets of sliding doors with touchless entry at the Washago Community Centre.
"The centre is the place to be in either Washago or West Shore and council staff is committed to enhancing the overall conditions for our community," he said.
For a full list of Community Building Fund: Capital stream recipients, click here.
