Rae Celebrates Funding for Listowel Kin Station

February 20, 2026

[Listowel, ON] –Today, Matthew Rae, Member of Provincial Parliament for Perth-Wellington, met with the Kinsmen Club of Listowel to hear about the impact of the $200,000 Capital grant it received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in 2024. 

“Our government is proud to support organizations that preserve our history while strengthening our future,” said MPP Rae. “For more than 75 years, the Kinsmen Club of Listowel has helped build the social and physical infrastructure that keeps this community strong. This $200,000 capital investment ensures the Kin Station remains a vibrant gathering place, supporting local events, organizations, and volunteers.”

The grant was used to improve the structural foundation of the century-old train station that the Club uses. This infrastructure repair project will help the Kin Youth organization expand and create a space for youth. 

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Kinsmen Club of Listowel provide services that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”

The goal of the project was to revitalize the building’s remaining foundation, supported by old railway ties. By strengthening the foundation, the Club increased the building’s usability and comfort by adding new insulation, windows, and a kitchen. The improved meeting room benefits the Kin Youth program by providing additional space. The Kin Station, originally used by the Wellington, Grey and Bruce Railway (established in 1871), is now used by several community groups for meetings, celebrations, and fundraisers.

“The ongoing impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said Ben Zavitz, Project Co-Ordinator for the Kinsmen Club of Listowel. “The Kin Station is the cornerstone of helping the Kinsmen Club of Listowel achieve our mandate of Serving the Community’s Greatest Needs.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.