Chatham, ON – On Monday, the MPP's office and Chatham-Kent YMCA celebrated an $89,100 Capital Grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. These funds are supporting the YMCA in completing upgrades to its indoor pool area, creating a safe and welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
“The Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital Grant awarded in 2023 marks a significant investment in the well-being of our communities,” says Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent-Leamington. “By supporting essential indoor pool upgrades at the Chatham-Kent YMCA, this $89,100 grant will enhance recreational facilities, fostering a sense of safety and belonging for all residents. This initiative underscores our commitment to promoting active lifestyles and providing safe, inclusive spaces for individuals of all ages and abilities to enjoy.”
This OTF Capital Grant, first awarded in September 2023, is supporting repairs to the pool deck cubbies, floor tiles, and back wall of the indoor pool area. OTF is also supporting the purchase of brand-new equipment, including lifeguard chairs, pool deck benches, a pool vacuum, aquafit dumbbells, and infant, child, and youth lifejackets.
“We’re grateful to OTF for these updates, which are benefitting swimmers as well as our lifeguarding staff,” says Andrew Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. “Swimmers will find a more comfortable environment at the Chatham-Kent YMCA – allowing for safe and fun participation in swimming lessons, parent and tot swim, lane swim, aquafit, and all types of pool activities.”
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario ignites the potential in people. We’re a charity that provides opportunities for growth in spirit, mind, and body for people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. At the Chatham-Kent YMCA, 2,300 members participate in a wide variety of health, fitness, and aquatics activities. One-third of Chatham-Kent YMCA members receive financial assistance in order to participate. To learn more, please visit: www.ymcaswo.ca
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario deliver experiences 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 the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
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 more than $110M into 1,044 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.
For more information, please contact:
Joe Cebulski, Regional Manager – Health, Fitness & Aquatics Operations – Lambton/Kent
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario
joe.cebulski@swo.ymca.ca
