Three Community Development Grants awarded by the Town of Grimsby

The Town of Grimsby has awarded three significant and well-deserving community organizations grants as part of the Grimsby Community Development Grant (GCDG). These grants assist local, non-profit and charitable organizations with the needed funding to manage community-based programs, projects or events that help support and enhance the well-being of Grimsby residents and align with Council’s Strategic Priorities.

The 2024 Recipients of the Grimsby Community Development Grant includes:

Cooper Robertson Foundation

• The Cooper Robertson Foundation supports children and families impacted by Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) by raising funds through donations and fundraisers for the TSC clinic at SickKids Hospital.
• The GCDG will assist the Cooper Robertson Foundation’s annual fundraising event to increase awareness of TSC.
• Grant amount given: $18,900

YMCA of Niagara

• YMCA of Niagara empowers individuals across the region through health and fitness, community outreach, newcomer and employment services, aquatics, childcare, camps, and education programs.
• The GCDG will contribute to the upgrade of their outdated lighting to modern LED fixtures in key community spaces ensuring enhanced visibility, safety, and energy efficiency. 
• Grant amount given: $12,254 

Nelles Manor Heritage House

• Nelles Manor Heritage House is an organization that collects, preserves, and interprets the history and information related to the 1812 historic battlefield, Nelles Manor, and the Nelles family to share their significance with the public.
• The GCDG funding will support the restoration of the cedar shake roof which will protect the 226-year-old house, including the specialized collection of Upper Canada furnishings, artifacts and art. 
• Grant amount given: $15,255

Applicants were judged based on a specific set of criteria, including evidence of community support that enhances the project, demonstration of how the organization and project benefit and contribute to the quality of life for Grimsby residents, and the extent to which the project fulfills an unmet need or improves an existing service in the community.

Community groups were invited to submit projects that would benefit Grimsby residents, with funding available for up to 30% of the project budget up to a maximum of $100,000. All grant recipients are required to submit a progress and final report detailing the outcomes of their projects and the expenditures covered by the grant funding.

The GCDG was launched as a pilot in 2023 and formally approved by Council in 2024. Moving forward, funding for this program will be provided annually, contingent on the availability of year-end surpluses. The GCDG helps foster community engagement, cultural enrichment, and social impact for residents in Grimsby.

For more information, visit https://www.grimsby.ca/living-in/community-development-grant-program/.

Quote:

"We are thrilled to support the incredible passion and dedication of these grant recipients who are driving meaningful change in our community. Their programs, projects and events embody the spirit of collaboration and innovation, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to bring with the help of some valuable funds." Mayor Jeff Jordan, Mayor of the Town of Grimsby

“Over the past 5 years, the Cooper Robertson Foundation has felt so much support from the Town of Grimsby. We are incredibly thankful to be recipients of the Community Development Grant. This funding will have an immediate impact and make a lasting difference!” Stephanie Yallin, Cooper Robertson Foundation.

"We are grateful to the Town of Grimsby for their generous support of the Illuminate Potential project. Our Niagara West YMCA will become a more accessible, sustainable, and vibrant space, enhancing the overall experience for our members and community participants.” Ben McDermott, YMCA of Niagara.

“Nelles Manor Museum is honoured to have been a recipient of the Community Grant. The funds helped preserve the Manor in our cedar roof replacement project. Now the 227-year-old house and the artifacts within will be protected.” Kate Pyatt, Nelles Manor Heritage House.

Project Contact:

Grimsby Community Development Grant Program (GCDG)

Ese Ijevu

Senior Financial Analyst, Town of Grimsby

communitydevelopmentgrant@grimsby.ca | 905-945-9634

Media Contact:

Christina Davidson

Communications Specialist

cdavidson@grimsby.ca | 905-945-9634