$56,000 OTF Grant from Ontario Government Drives Habitat for Humanity Cornwall’s Mission Forward

Cornwall, ON – A significant boost has come to Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties in the form of a $56,000 Resiliency Fund Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). This funding has enabled the purchase of a new van, which was officially unveiled Friday morning by a representative of local MPP Nolan Quinn. The new vehicle marks a vital step in expanding the organization’s capacity to serve the community, particularly in rural areas.

The grant is part of the provincial government’s broader effort to support organizations that build resiliency and sustainability. For Habitat for Humanity Cornwall, the new van means enhanced efficiency in collecting donations for their ReStore, which plays a critical role in funding the organization’s affordable housing projects.

“I’m pleased to see Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties acquire a new van, which will significantly enhance their operations. This vehicle will be immensely valuable as it allows staff to efficiently reach rural areas necessary for collecting donations,” MPP Nolan Quinn remarked. “Our government firmly believes that everyone deserves a home, and Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties is doing an extraordinary job in making that belief a reality.”

Leigh Taggart, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties, expressed gratitude for the support, emphasizing the impact the van will have on their operations. “This grant means we are able to reach our valued donors faster and more efficiently, allowing Habitat Cornwall to make a greater, local impact. And that is made possible by funding this new vehicle,” she said.

The van will be pivotal in accelerating ReStore donation pick-ups, reaching more remote areas, and bolstering revenue generation through ReStore operations and other projects like ReMove. All these efforts directly support Habitat Cornwall’s mission to expand affordable housing in the region.

Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, highlighted the importance of supporting organizations like Habitat for Humanity through OTF grants. “Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Habitat for Humanity deliver experiences that make a difference. That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”

With housing and rental prices on the rise, Habitat for Humanity Cornwall’s work in affordable housing is more critical than ever. The organization is currently completing its 21st local home, and the third active construction in 2024, all driven by the belief that access to affordable housing is a basic human right.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is a key player in building vibrant communities across Ontario. Last year alone, OTF invested more than $110 million into 1,044 community projects, supporting initiatives that enhance economic well-being, foster active lifestyles, and create more sustainable environments. This recent grant to Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties is yet another step in ensuring that these vital community resources continue to thrive.

For more information about Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties and how you can support their mission, visit their website or contact them directly.