The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orillia and District are getting a big boost from the provincial government.

Earlier this week, Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop announced the local organization is one of three in the region sharing more than $776,000 in Ontario Trillium Foundation funding to “expand and improve successful programs and services.”

The local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization is getting $278,600, according to a news release from Dunlop.

“By hiring a dedicated mentoring coordinator and enhancing training for our volunteers, we will reduce wait times and ensure more young people have access to caring, consistent mentors who can help them build confidence, resilience, and critical life skills,” said Chaffey.

The Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre in Penetanguishene is also receiving $289,000, while Quest Art School + Gallery in Midland is receiving $208,500 in Trillium funding.

Dunlop said the government is “proud” to support such programs.

“Our government believes local programs and services enrich the lives of people in Simcoe North and play an important role in building a strong community and prosperous economy,” she said.

“That is why our government is proud to support these program and service providers through OTF’s Grow grant stream,” said Dunlop. “Organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Georgian Bay Cancer Support Centre, & Quest Art School + Gallery are pillars of our community. This support will enable them to improve on programs that are essential to the well-being of people in Simcoe North, making a positive difference for years to come.”

“This project will expand our drop-in cancer support program in Penetanguishene (established in 2011) and Collingwood (established in 2024), consisting of a number of daily groups/classes for cancer patients and caregivers aimed at providing meaningful engagement with people with similar shared experiences, thus building a community among people with cancer and reducing social isolation following a diagnosis,” said Dylan Lalande, Executive Director.

“It will also equip more cancer survivors as peer-support mentors, who accompany new members to programs, and help with integration following a diagnosis. This grant presents a significant milestone for our organization and will support our continued growth in Penetanguishene and Collingwood.”

“In Simcoe North and all across Ontario, non-profits are delivering critical services that enable people to train for new careers, stay active, learn new things, and connect with their community,” said Cho.

OTF Grow grants help non-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and small municipalities across the province expand the reach of programs and services that are already making a positive impact – helping even more people in more communities like Simcoe North.

Applicants can apply for funding of $100,000 to $600,000 over two or three years to expand, improve or adapt an existing program or service.

You can read the original article here: https://www.orilliamatters.com/local-news/local-big-brothers-big-sisters-gets-278000-booster-shot-from-province-10561712