Sunny Days Group receive over $90,000 to enhance Mobility Options and Strengthen Community Participation for Adults with Disabilities
On Friday, May 9, 2025, local MPP David Piccini had the opportunity to meet with representatives from Sunny Days Group Program and see the results of a $91,500 Resilient Communities Fund grant that the group received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation. The grant, awarded at the start of 2024, enabled the group to buy a 15-seat passenger van to expand on its ability to make it
easier for its members to access services and remain more connected to their community.
“Community-based programs are essential to building stronger, more inclusive communities,” said David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland Peterborough south, “By creating a safe, welcoming space where individuals with unique challenges can grow, gain confidence and access vital support, Sunny Day group program is making a real difference in people’s lives. Our government is proud to stand behind community-led initiatives that prioritize well-being and belonging for everyone.”
This generous grant was used for the purchase of a new passenger van. Given the limited public transportation in Brighton, this grant will allow Sunny Days’ members to access more cultural and recreational activities. In addition to purchasing the van, the grant enabled some members to take their F driver’s license test as well to help with the cost of insurance for the van. The province remains committed to supporting local groups and projects that promote inclusion across Ontario.
“Sunny Days Group Program funds its basic program costs with member fees,” said Jim Emptage, one of the Sunny Days Group program’s four volunteer directors.
“Fundraising Grants such as this OTF grant helps us expand and enhance our programming and services.”
Since 2017 Sunny Days Group Program has pursued its mission to create a not-forprofit, self-sustaining, independent community program for adults with different challenges who are accepted by and actively involved in their community. For an overview of Sunny Days Group program, please visit: sunnydaysgroupprogram.ca
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Sunny Days Group Program deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships.
Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
Quick Facts
• Participants engage in community outings, life skills training, recreation, and educational programs, including cooking, safety awareness, and motor skill development.
• Access to transportation allows members to explore local parks, attend special events or sports games, and several other engaging community activities.
• In 2024, the program was awarded a $2,500 grant from the Brian Todd Memorial Community Fund to enhance activities like field trips, arts, and computer games for its 28 clients
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
