BGC Niagara recognizes donors and contributors to EJ Freeland Community Centre renovations and operations
September 24, 2022
A dozen donors and government partners were recognized by BGC Niagara on Saturday for their contributions to the renovations and reopening of the EJ Freeland Community Centre (EJ Freeland). The reopening was made possible by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), which awarded BGC Niagara a $250,000 Community Building Fund – Operating stream grant, allowing EJ Freeland to open and operate effectively under restrictions that limited programs and capacity.
“COVID-19 had a significant impact on all our communities and that includes important groups like the BGC Niagara—that’s why I’m so excited to see them receive this grant so they can get back to the wonderful work they do. They give lasting opportunities to kids in Niagara and this grant will allow them to continue that great work,” said Wayne Gates, MPP for Niagara Falls.
In April 2022, BGC Niagara also received a $90,000 Resilient Communities fund grant which helped fund fitness program operating costs at EJ Freeland, ensuring quality fitness programs like Gentle Fit and Cardio Mix could be offered on a consistent basis.
Donors also supported a renovation campaign in 2020, which raised funds to remodel rooms and areas in EJ Freeland to suit the purposes of BGC Niagara, including adding child care space and a fitness studio.
“Significant renovations were required to the EJ Freeland Community Centre to make it workable for long-term sustainability – renovations which would not have been possible without generous contributions from the community,” said JoAnne Turner, BGC Niagara CEO. “We are pleased to be able to formally thank the donors by showcasing their lasting legacy with a donor wall and naming recognition plaques in the building.”
JoAnne added, “Operating EJ Freeland throughout and following the pandemic would not have been possible without the OTF grants. Their support means that Fort Erie residents had and will continue to have access to low-cost programs and facilities for fitness within their own community.”
With the support of these partners, BGC Niagara was able to meet our mission of providing safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life, as well as offer fitness opportunities for Fort Erie residents all ages.
About the Ontario Trillium Foundation
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) mission is to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario. As an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations, last year, OTF invested nearly $209M into 2,042 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Since 2020, OTF has supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Visit otf.ca to learn more.