Rae announces funding for St. Marys Friendship Centre

[Stratford, ON]— Today, Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington announced that the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport is providing the St. Marys Friendship Centre with $144,000 to replace the building’s aging heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, and will be completed in 2024. This funding comes through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Capital grant stream.

“The St. Marys Friendship Centre is a staple of the St. Marys community,” said Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington. “I am pleased to see our provincial government, through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, invest $144,000 to help replace their HVAC system. These upgrades will ensure that local seniors can continue to access essential services right here in the Town of St. Marys.”

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 impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Stephanie Ische, Director of Community Services for the Town of St. Marys. “This grant will fund needed renovations that will better equip the building to meet the varying needs of our community.”

“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.