‘The OTF Resiliency Communities Fund grant made it possible for us to improve our resources at a time when we were feeling insecure about the future’
A $131,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) has enabled a local group to launch a health and wellness project. The two-year grant, awarded in the summer of 2022, was part of a program to help non-profit and small communities rebuild and recover from the impacts created by the pandemic.
“Big Brother Big Sisters of North Bay and District are a valued part of our community,” said Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing. “The Ontario government is proud to make an investment through the Resilient Communities Fund to support staffing levels and mental health supports to assist with the impacts of COVID-19. We are fortunate to have this organization providing life-changing mentorship opportunities for our young population.”
Funds from the grant are used to help with the salary for a caseworker, as well as to implement and deliver health and wellness support to Big Brothers Big Sisters’ staff, volunteers, and clients. In addition, the grant was used to buy a range of recreation equipment, consult with IT specialists, host in-person and virtual meetings, and help with some administrative costs.
“The OTF Resiliency Communities Fund grant made it possible for us to improve our resources at a time when we were feeling insecure about the future,” said Darlene Jamieson, Executive Director. “Our health and wellness program helped our Big and Little Brothers and Sisters reconnect in-person and continue with their long-lasting friendships. The new technology that was made possible through the grant has improved our service delivery and fundraising. “
Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Bay and District has been serving the North Bay community since 1976 with a mission to ignite the power and potential of young people. The organization provides community and school-based mentoring, Indigenous mentoring programs and transitional services in partnership with the province and child welfare services.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Bay and District deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
To become a volunteer or inquire about your child’s eligibility for services, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at (705) 474-3041 or email: [email protected]
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