Three community Non-Profits organizations serving Durham Region are set to benefit from $1.27 million in provincial funding through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, helping expand programs that support youth, seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities.
The funding will be shared by Sunrise Developmental Support Services, the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region, and Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland. The investments aim to strengthen community programs that promote active living, improve access to support services and enhance opportunities for children and families.
According to provincial officials, the funding is part of ongoing efforts to support non-profit organizations that play a key role in strengthening communities across Ontario.
The three Durham Region organizations will receive the following funding allocations:
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Sunrise Developmental Support Services – $463,400
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Alzheimer Society of Durham Region – $461,300
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Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland – $346,000
The funding announcement was highlighted during a community event at Grandview Children’s Centre in Ajax, recognizing the contributions of local organizations that provide essential programs and services for residents.
Whitby MPP Lorne Coe said the organizations receiving funding play an important role in supporting communities across Durham Region.
“Organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland, the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region and Sunrise Developmental Support Services are pillars of our community,” Coe said. “This support will enable them to improve programs that are essential to the well-being of people in Whitby, Ajax and across Durham Region.”
The funding will help the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region expand programs that assist people living with dementia and support their caregivers.
CEO Gillian Barrie said the investment will strengthen services that many families rely on.
“This support will allow the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region to expand and strengthen vital programs that empower people living with dementia and their care partners,” Barrie said.
Meanwhile, Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland plans to use the funding to expand its group mentorship program for girls aged 11 to 14.
Executive Director Melanie Stewart said the program focuses on helping young people address challenges such as online safety, bullying, gender-based violence and mental health issues.
“This funding allows us to adapt our mentorship program to better support girls facing challenges in today’s world,” Stewart said.
Sunrise Developmental Support Services will use its funding to expand its community program for adults with developmental disabilities.
Executive Director Amber McKinley said the organization will increase programming from three days per week to five days, which will help reduce waiting lists and allow more individuals to participate.
The expanded program will focus on building independence through life skills training, community engagement and practical learning experiences, including navigating public transportation.
Durham Region Chair John Henry said the investment highlights the importance of supporting community-based organizations.
“Durham Region is proud to be home to non-profit organizations that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” Henry said. “This investment will strengthen essential programs and ensure residents across the region can continue to access the services they rely on.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation has invested more than $857 million in over 7,700 projects across Ontario since 2018, supporting community initiatives that promote well-being, culture and economic development.
Officials say these investments have also helped create more than 10,700 full-time jobs while generating over $1.3 billion in economic benefits for communities across the province.
