Ontario helps Communities Stay Active
Funding helps Township of Alnwick/Haldimand implement new outdoor fitness equipment to increase physical activity within the community
Grafton, July 24th, 2023 – On Wednesday, MPP David Piccini cut the ribbon at the Haldimand Memorial Arena to mark the addition of new outdoor fitness equipment and other renovations and upgrades. Thanks to a $98,500 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in 2022, the Township was able to make upgrades to the arena, as well as some renovations to the Alnwick Civic Centre in Roseneath.
A portion of the grant was used to purchase and install outdoor fitness equipment outside at the arena in Grafton. The equipment will give area residents a range of fun and accessible opportunities to work out and participate in physical activity outdoors. The outdoor fitness equipment is available to everyone and removes any barriers, such as cost and available hours that traditional indoor fitness options can create.
“The Ontario Government recognizes how important sports and recreational activities are for our physical and mental well-being” said MPP David Piccini. “That is why the implementation of this new outdoor fitness equipment is crucial and deeply beneficial for our community’s health and our family’s happiness”.
In addition to the installation of the outdoor fitness equipment, the grant enabled the Township to make upgrades to reception areas at the Haldimand Memorial Arena and the Alnwick Civic Centre and that are now completed and have made both facilities accessible. Both locations are used by a variety of community groups and the upgrades will allow Township staff to have a safe and open space to welcome people into the centres and take registrations. The grant has also enabled the Township to purchase new software making online registrations more easily available for residents.
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be overstated,” said John Logel, Mayor for the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand. “This grant has provided outdoor fitness equipment that can be used by our ratepayers, day, or night. I like to get my work out done in the early morning hours, when it’s not too hot and it is a great way to start my day. The fitness equipment is completely accessible so we can now accommodate everyone with mobility issues and serve our community better. We also want to congratulate the Ontario Trillium Foundation on 40 years of granting and building healthy and vibrant communities across the province.”
The Township of Alnwick/Haldimand is unified from Lake to Lake, our community is rooted in rural traditions and lifestyle. We enjoy a fulfilling life here, in all four seasons. We learn from nature, celebrate diversity, and embrace progress as an accessible, inclusive community. Community Centre is committed to preserving this space and ensuring that it remains accessible for many community activities over the course of the year. If you wish to enquire about using the community centres or learn more about our parks, please visit the website at: www.ahtwp.ca
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.