Wednesday, April 8th, Lancaster, ON – SD&G MPP Jim McDonell is pleased to announce that Quilt of Belonging has been awarded an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant of $56,500 over 12 months to create a dynamic new website with current technology, information and educational resources.  Quilt of Belonging has become a trusted source of cultural information for Canada and the new site will increase access to educational and cultural resources by creating an online hub which will feature updated cultural profiles for all Canada’s.

The Quilt’s educational resources will be put on-line so that they can be used free-of-charge, anywhere in Canada and internationally.  We plan to design new resources as well, that are interactive, fun and relevant for students and educators at all grade levels.  The Quilt project has long been included in school textbooks throughout Canada. Educators have found it an effective tool for reaching youth with the messages of inclusion, acceptance, diversity, respect and belonging. The education resources will be translated into French, Mohawk, Ojibwe, Oji-Cree and Inuktituk to make the resources truly accessible to all.

Our partners for this endeavour include The Native North American Travelling College, The Debajehmujig Creation Centre, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami , The Canadian Ethnocultural Council, Centre Charles-Émile Claude , Centre Culturel de Cornwall and the project is further supported by The Akwesasne Area Management Board.

MPP Jim McDonell  says “Quilt of Belonging is a tangible testimony to Ontario’s and Canada’s diversity, openness and unity. Through its tours and educational material, the Quilt has brought together Canadians across generational, cultural and geographic divides. This Trillium grant will help the Quilt improve its online presence in order to deliver its bright message to more Canadians and have the best chance of having a meaningful impact. I extend my sincere congratulations to the Quilt of Belonging for this recognition of the outstanding work they continue to do in spreading a message of hope, community and tolerance. ”

Quilt of Belonging has impacted millions in its16 year journey, and with the new website and on-line educational resources, will continue to reach out to the world, sharing the important message, A Place for All!

For more information visit  www.quiltofbelonging.ca .