$56,800 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Strengthens Community
Saturday, August 10, 2024
Mississauga, ON – On Saturday, local MPP Sheref Sabawy met with the team at Studio.89 to hear more about a $56,800 Capital grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to increase use of space by expanding functionality, square footage, participation usable hours through wall partitions.
“It is always exciting to see the work of Studio.89 in the heart of Erin Mills — creating a community hub, promoting social justice, and supporting young people,” said Sheref Sabawy, MPP for Mississauga—Erin Mills. “I am delighted to see Studio.89 continuing this legacy here in Mississauga, supported by a capital grant through the Ontario Trillium Foundation. This is a great partnership and will surely have a long-lasting effect within the Mississauga community.”
First awarded in November 2022, the OTF Capital grant allowed Studio.89 to enhance its program and service delivery by funding the purchase of fixed and non-fixed equipment through multi-sensory equipment, workstations, maintenance equipment, sound system and kitchen appliances. These equipment purchases will enrich visitor experiences at Studio.89 by fostering social interaction, inclusivity, and operational efficiency. The new board game collections will enhance leisure activities and community engagement for all ages, while the upgraded audio equipment will greatly improve communication during events. Accessible furniture will ensure all members can participate comfortably; while upgraded appliances will streamline operations for larger gatherings. The purchase of new laptops will also boost productivity for staff and CO-OP students, facilitating efficient program management.
“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant can’t be overstated,” said Brittany Drummond, Board Member at Studio.89. “These enhancements aim to create an inviting, inclusive atmosphere that attracts diverse individuals and will increase participation in our programs. Thanks to this support from the Ontario government, we will be able to better achieve our mission to establish a community hub that fosters connection.”
Studio.89 is a fair-trade cafe and nonprofit community hub providing a free space for events, workshops, and resources. They encourage community dialogue, interculturalism, artistic expression, and conscious consumerism while focusing on youth leadership development. They aim to benefit humans, animals, and the planet in all that they do.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Studio.89 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.”
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.
For more information, please contact:
Aryanna Alikhan, Operations Manager
Studio.89
beawesome@studio89.org