Provincial Government Grant Empowers the South Simcoe Arts Council to Flourish

New Tecumseth, ON – On March 8, MPP Brian Saunderson met with representatives from the South Simcoe Arts Council (SSAC) to formally congratulate them on the work that's happened since receiving a $196,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government's Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The two-year long grant, awarded last spring, is proving to be a transformative grant, empowering SSAC to enhance its operational capabilities, expand community engagement, and foster long-term sustainability.

"The arts are a vital part of our community. They introduce and infuse new thinking and growth as well as nurture cultural development, I'm thrilled to see how the South Simcoe Arts Council is able to leverage and benefit from these funds," says Brian Saunderson, MPP Simcoe-Grey.

The OTF grant has enabled SSAC to strategically hire key personnel, including a Volunteer Coordinator, Program Coordinator, and a Fundraising Sustainability Contractor and Trainer. These appointments will significantly strengthen SSAC's ability to serve the community, nurture volunteer engagement, and ensure financial resilience.

In addition to bolstering human resources, the grant has facilitated the completion of a remarkable improvement in SSAC's facilities. The MakeSpace Room provides a dedicated space for hosting events and workshops, fostering an environment of creativity and collaboration. This grant is allowing SSAC's versatile space to be furnished and equipped with the necessary amenities, making it an ideal venue for workshops and small events.

The Resilient Communities Fund grant aligns seamlessly with SSAC's commitment to building resilience and sustainability. The additional support will empower SSAC to not only recover from challenges but to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the community.

The South Simcoe Arts Council is a dynamic organization dedicated to fostering the arts and cultural development in the South Simcoe region. Through various programs, exhibits, and initiatives, SSAC strives to enrich the community's cultural landscape and promote artistic expression.

"Non-profit organizations across Ontario deliver programming that makes a difference," said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. "That's why funding that my ministry is providing through the OTF is so important. Our government wants to ensure that these programs and spaces remain the heart of communities across our province."

The Ontario Trillium Foundation's "OTF) 'mission is to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario. As an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada's leading granting foundations, last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.