On Tuesday, local MPP Ted Hsu met with the team at Ongwanada to celebrate the $170,300 Resilient Communities fund grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
“All individuals deserve a life of inclusion, dignity, and independence, and that’s exactly what Ongwanada strives to accomplish. Their dedication to advocacy and community empowerment is commendable and certainly worthy of the Resilient Communities grant,” said Ted Hsu, MPP for Kingston and the Islands.
Over the grant period, Ongwanada strategically utilized the funding to fortify its services and foster greater inclusivity. A key initiative enabled by this support was the establishment of a dedicated Community Connections Coordinator role. This vital position played an instrumental role in cultivating connections, providing invaluable support to individuals, and amplifying community engagement, especially in the face of pandemic-induced obstacles.
Moreover, the grant empowered Ongwanada to implement hybrid service options, ensuring equitable access to online activities for all supported individuals in a safe and informed manner. By embracing hybrid services, Ongwanada reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, fostering an environment where every individual could thrive, irrespective of their circumstances.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Resilient Communities Fund for their unwavering support throughout this journey,” remarked Dr. Lak Chinta, CEO at Ongwanada. “This grant has been transformative, allowing us not only to recover from the impacts of COVID-19 but also to emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. With the establishment of the Community Connections Coordinator role and the implementation of hybrid services, we have been able to address the evolving needs of our community and provide exceptional support to all individuals.”
Ongwanada is a leading organization dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Through a diverse array of services and programs, Ongwanada advocates for inclusion, dignity, and independence, enriching the lives of those we serve.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Ongwanada 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 they remain 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.
