The Ontario Government supports Northumberland 89.7 FM to the tune of $92,900

April 24, 2025

Northumberland 89.7 FM received $92,900 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation to expand coverage and deliver local news to residents.

On Thursday, MPP David Piccini was at Northumberland 89.7 FM to hear how a $92,900 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) has made an impact at the Cobourg radio station that helps the community remain engaged and connected. Funds from the 12-month long grant, awarded in early 2024, were used to expand the station’s news coverage and leadership positions. The project will give area residents expanded coverage of local politics focusing on municipal, health, sports, recreation and social issues.

“High quality local journalism is integral to keeping a community like ours connected,” said David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South. “Northumberland 89.7 FM delivers exceptional content to all those across Northumberland covering the issues that matter most to our community, our Government is committed to supporting strong local organizations in their pursuit of delivering the best services for residents.”

 Over the last year, the grant helped with staffing costs for a news director and executive director, bought some technical equipment and helped with key administration costs as well. The Resilient Communities Fund grant was instrumental in expanding the station’s news coverage and news team with quality reporting and stories, and it grew its volunteer base and engaging the community by “showing up” at events and functions within the Northumberland County.

“The Ontario government grant has been critical to the station’s long-term success,” said Barry Walker, Chair of Northumberland 89.7 FM.  “It has allowed us to continue to provide quality local news and be the heartbeat of our community.”

Ontario is dedicated to supporting groups like Northumberland 89.7 FM who deliver programming that informs, entertains and inspires the residents of Northumberland County.

“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Northumberland 89.7 FM’s 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.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Ben Williams

Constituency Assistant
Office of MPP David Piccini
905-372-4000
Ben.williams@pc.ola.org