$82,500 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Plants Community Garden!

Oshawa, ON – On Friday, Oshawa MPP Jennifer French met with the team at Durham Community Health Centre to learn about the impact that an $82,000 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) has had since the group received it late last year. The year-long grant was used to develop and maintain a community garden. The project grows produce for food-insecure individuals, and creates a community space, teaches important skills, and helps us build a healthier community, together.

“I am so grateful for the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Seed grant to such a deserving organization,” said Jennifer French, MPP for Oshawa. “This investment went far in assisting with the development and maintenance of a community garden. Far beyond the garden itself, the funds ensured that the new skills would help building a healthier community, meet basic needs and improve financial stability for our neighbours. Thank you to Durham Community Health Centre for the work they do every day and thank you Ontario Trillium Foundation for supporting that important work!”

“Within the DCHC Community Garden there has been an incredible sense of community, learning, and collaboration,” said Ashley Ward, Program Support, Durham Community Health Centre. “Free and accessible community spaces like our community garden are extremely beneficial to our neighborhoods, acting as a haven for social connection, skill building, and reconnecting with nature. I’ve truly appreciated the opportunity to support bringing people together through two things I’m extremely passionate about- gardening and community.”

Durham Community Health Centre (DCHC) is a registered, charitable organization that provides integrated, accessible, and equitable community based primary care, wellness services, and health education to Durham community members who face multiple barriers to their health and well-being. Learn more at www.durhamchc.ca

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. 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.

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Organization Contact for Media Inquiries:

Diana Raymond-Watts, Associate Vice President, Communications, Partnerships and Development / Chief Engagement Officer

Durham Community Health Centre

905-903-3712 draymond-watts@durhamchc.ca