Rae announces Capital Support for Women’s Shelter Expansion

[Stratford, ON]— Today, Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington announced that the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport is providing Optimism Place Women’s Shelter with an additional $77,600 to purchase furnishings for the ten new bedrooms that have been recently added to their building. This funding comes through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Capital grant stream.

“Optimism Place provides important and vital services to women and children in our local communities,” said Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington. “The monies provided by our government, through Ontario Trillium Foundation, has allowed them to purchase furniture for their expanded shelter, ensuring their new rooms are a welcoming space. I look forward to continuing to work with Optimism Place to support those that require their services.”

Provincial funding that is received through the OTF’s Capital grant stream improves the infrastructure 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 having a positive impact on our communities.

“The grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so appreciated,” said Kate Graham, Chair of the Optimism Place Board of Directors. “This grant has provided some of the furnishings for the new space and is part of a large community effort to ensure that women and children have a safe place in our community. We also want to congratulate the Ontario Trillium Foundation on 40 years of granting and building healthy and vibrant communities across the province.”

“Non-profit organizations across Ontario deliver programming that makes a difference – helping people train for new careers, learn new things, or simply connect with those around them,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “That’s why the capital grant support that my ministry is providing is so important. Our government wants to ensure that these spaces remain the heart of communities across our province.”

Capital grants improve access to programs and technology in community spaces, making it easier for Ontarians to participate in community programs. Funded projects:

• Improve access to facilities, programs, activities and services
• Improve existing spaces and support new build projects
• Make programs and services better and more efficient
• Make better use of technology.

Please visit the OTF’s website for more information and a full list of Capital grant stream recipients.