$99,700 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Helps Ottawa’s Grieving Community
Ottawa, ON – On Saturday, local MPP Catherine McKenney met with the team at Bereaved Families of Ontario – Ottawa Region to hear more about the $99,700 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to increase volunteer capacity and scale up peer support programs for individuals who are grieving. The project will allow the grieving community access to both virtual and in person programs.
“Bereaved Families Ottawa does essential work in our community, supporting and assisting those who have recently lost a loved one. I’m glad they will be able to continue doing that important work with support from the OTF,” said Catherine McKenney, MPP for Ottawa Centre.
Awarded in January 2024, the grant allowed Bereaved Families of Ontario – Ottawa Region to substantially increase volunteer capacity to continue both our virtual and in person programs and to develop new programs to address the needs of grieving people.
“Volunteers are the foundation of everything we do at Bereaved Families of Ontario – Ottawa Region,” said Micheline Lepage, Chair of the Board. “Their compassion, commitment, and lived experience make it possible for us to offer meaningful programs that bring comfort and connection to those navigating grief. Our volunteers extend the reach of our organization, strengthen our impact in the community, and embody the empathy and hope at the heart of our mission.”
Bereaved Families of Ontario – Ottawa Region’s mission statement is to inspire hope and healing for people in the Ottawa Region grieving the death of someone significant in their life.
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.
Organization Contact for Media Inquiries:
Monique Strathern, Volunteer Coordinator
Bereaved Families of Ontario – Ottawa Region
613-567-4278
office@bfo-ottawa.org