The YMCA of Eastern Ontario got a boost from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. A $127,500 grant was announced on Friday.
Rob Adams, CEO of the Y, says the funds will be used to upgrade the facility, which dates back to the ‘90s. He noted the first project on the docket is renovating the men’s change room, including new lockers, showers, fixtures, tiles and benches. Adams explained the plan is to continue making improvements over the next few years.
The YMCA runs the only indoor swimming pool in Brockville and the surrounding area, according to Adams, and attracts more than 20,000 visitors every month. He says the grant will help the maintain a valuable community asset that continues to offer high quality, accessible physical activities for all members of the community.
Adams noted the YMCA is not just a gym and a pool – it’s a charity first and offers support to anyone who needs it, through subsidies.
The United Way was also on hand Friday night to present an $11,000 cheque for the YMCA’s Teen Night program. The dollars will cover transportation costs for youth being bussed in from rural areas, including Prescott and Spencerville.
Adams says the Teen Night has a real community impact. He noted the free program is open to youth between the ages of 13 and 18, from 7:30pm to midnight every Friday.
For more information about the YMCA, click here.