Cornwall, ON – On Friday morning, a representative for local MPP Nolan Quinn turned the key for Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties’ new van. He met with the Habitat team to learn more about the $56,000 Resiliency Fund Grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to purchase a new vehicle. The project will build resiliency and sustainability to expand ReStore donation pick ups and assist with revenue generation opportunities.
“I’m pleased to see Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties acquire a new van, which will significantly enhance their operations. This vehicle will be immensely valuable as it allows staff to efficiently reach rural areas necessary for collecting donations,” said MPP Nolan Quinn. “Our government firmly believes that everyone deserves a home, and Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties is doing an extraordinary job in making that belief a reality.”
Thanks to this contribution from OTF, Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties has purchased and wrapped a new van that will be used across their service area. This vehicle will help ReStore staff and volunteers get to donation pick ups faster and in more rural locations. Revenue generation in general will be supported through ReStore donations, ReMove projects and more. All of this is in support of Habitat Cornwall’s affordable housing portfolio.
“We greatly appreciate the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. This grant means we are able to reach our valued donors faster and more efficiently allowing Habitat Cornwall to make a greater, local impact. And that is made possible by funding this new vehicle,” says Leigh Taggart, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties.
As rental and housing prices continue to rise across the province, working with key community stakeholders to offer the opportunity for affordable housing is more important than ever. By increasing revenue through the ReStore, Habitat Cornwall is better supporting local, affordable housing, while also assisting waste diversion.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Habitat for Humanity 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 they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
Habitat for Humanity Cornwall & The Counties is currently completing their 21st local, affordable home. Not only is this the 21st home, but the third active construction in 2024. Habitat Cornwall believes access to affordable housing is a basic human right and strives to make this a reality.
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 more than $110M into 1,044 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.