Port Hope Town Recreation Centre receives nearly $60,000 to create welcoming outdoor space for seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers
On Thursday, June 19, 2025 MPP Piccini along with the Municipality of Port Hope hosted a Seniors Seminar and barbeque at the Town Park Recreation Centre. This was the first use of the new Inclusive Oasis, an accessible outside space, funded by the Ontario Government through the Inclusive Community Grant.
“Our government is proud to support projects like the Inclusive Oasis that are making a real difference in the lives of local residents,” said David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland–Peterborough South. “This investment will help ensure that seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers in our community have a welcoming and accessible outdoor space where they can connect, relax, and thrive.”
Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, the Town Park Recreation Centre will receive up to $59,850 in funding to create an accessible outdoor space for seniors and people with disabilities easily accessed to and from current facilities. By providing an easily accessed appropriate and safe area with shade, seating, entertainment opportunities, gardens, and mobility aid charging stations, the project will promote health, social connections, and community engagement.
“Inclusive communities create more accessible environments for older adults and people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of community life,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “Through the Inclusive Community Grants Program, we are fostering community involvement and fighting social isolation by removing barriers to help Ontarians stay active, healthy and independent.”
The investment in the Inclusive Community Grants Program has increased to up to $1.55 million for this year’s 18 projects. Since this initiative was created in 2020, it has provided over $5 million to support 125 projects promoting inclusivity and accessibility in Ontario.
“On behalf of Municipal Council and our community, I extend our sincere thanks to the Ontario Government for their generous support through the Inclusive Community Grant,” said Mayor Olena Hankivsky, Municipality of Port Hope. “The funding has helped us transform the Town Park Recreation Centre Courtyard into an Inclusive Oasis – an accessible outdoor space that promotes the health, well-being, and social connection of seniors and people with disabilities. This support has allowed us to
enhance the courtyard with shade, seating, gardens, entertainment opportunities, and more. This project is a reflection of our shared commitment to building inclusive, welcoming spaces where everyone in our community can thrive.”
QUICK FACTS
· Ontario is investing in a total of 38 community-based projects as part this years Inclusive Community Grants Program.
· The first 20 Inclusive Community Grants for this year were announced in September.
· Inclusive and Age-Friendly Communities work to promote accessibility and active living for people of all ages and abilities.
· Inclusive Community Grant recipients can receive up to $60,000 for projects that foster inclusive community involvement for older adults and people of all abilities.
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
