“The McGuinty government recognizes the numerous benefits that arts, culture and recreational programs bring to our communities,” said Minister Carroll. “These Ontario Trillium Foundation grants will have a powerful impact on local economies and improve the quality of life for Ontario families."

Grants will enable groups to create more social, cultural and recreational activities, remove barriers to full participation and promote healthy living. The Foundation, through the Muskoka, Nipissing, Parry Sound and Timiskaming Grant Review Team and its Chair, Christina Golding, believes this is the way to build healthy and vibrant communities.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario. Ontario's 2008 spring budget boosted the Foundation's annual funding to $110 million from $105 million, which will be further increased to $120 million by 2009-2010.

The Community grants listed below were ratified on June 26, 2008.

Bonfield Agricultural Society
$150,000 over one year to upgrade the well, electrical and alarm systems, buy equipment and landscape the area. These improvements will make the facility a safer, well-maintained community space for heritage, recreational and social activities.

The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound Inc.
$79,500 over 18 months for a co-ordinator, workshops and supplies to establish a mentorship program. Small business entrepreneurs in the districts of Parry Sound and Nipissing will receive training and assistance to manage their businesses.

The Corporation of the Municipality of Charlton and Dack
$45,800 over six months to extend the use of the outdoor rink facility by installing a fabric roof, end walls and lights. It will then be available year-round for local citizens of all ages and abilities to participate in a variety of activities.

The Corporation of the Township of Seguin
$30,000 over one year to install an elevator that will improve access to the upper-level facilities of the Humphrey Community Centre. This will allow more people of all ages and abilities to participate in activities taking place at the centre.

Huntsville Curling Club
$48,300 over one year to upgrade washroom facilities, install an ice-area dehumidifier and replace hall flooring at the club. Improvements will increase accessibility, enhance the ice quality and make the facility a more inviting place for all.

Muskoka Heritage Trust
$106,200 over two years for a co-ordinator to assess the natural values of the trust’s properties and interests. The ecological significance of lands will be determined and protected by establishing nature reserves or easement agreements.

New Liskeard Agricultural Society
$15,000 to purchase portable metal sectional fencing. This equipment will improve safety and security at annual fall fairs and reduce the time required to set up and tear down each event.

The North Bay Literacy Council
$40,300 over one year to establish and deliver a literacy and health program in partnership with regional literacy providers and the local health-care sector. The program will serve as a model for other literacy councils across the province.

North Bay Theatre and Arts Community Centre (Capitol Centre)
$15,000 over a year to revitalize the performing arts centre’s lobby area with a custom-built grand concession bar and cash register. The additions will beautify the area for patrons and provide a professional, modern working space for volunteers.

Restoule & District Lions Club
$15,000 over a year to construct a lighted helipad that will provide local citizens and visitors to this rural area with emergency airlift services on a year-round, 24-hour basis.

Temagami First Nation
$15,100 over six months for equipment, performers and supplies for the 2008 Traditional Pow Wow. The event enables members of the First Nation community and their neighbours to increase and celebrate their knowledge of Anishnabai culture and spirit.