Local News

Ontario Unveils Record Education Investment to Help Students Recover from COVID-19 Disruptions

Following two years of global learning disruption, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ontario government announced record funding of $26.6 billion for the 2022-23 school year. This funding will support learning recovery and fund mental health supports for students to allow a return to a more normal school year next year.

As part of the announcement, Education Minister Stephen Lecce unveiled Ontario’s Learning Recovery Action Plan – a five-point plan to strengthen learning recovery in reading and math, anchored by the largest provincial investment in tutoring supports, summer learning and mental health.

“These investments will help students in our communities have access to the supports they need to ensure students feel safe and supported at school as they recover from the pandemic disruptions,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

Highlights from Ontario’s record investment in public education include:

  • A $683.9 million increase in Grants for Student Needs (GSN) funding, with projected total funding of $26.1 billion. This represents a 2.7 per cent increase from 2021-22
  • Average per pupil GSN funding is projected to rise to $13,059, which is an increase of $339 or a 2.7 per cent increase from 2021-22
  • Over $500 million in Priorities and Partnerships Funding (PPF)
  • $90 million in total mental health investments, representing a 420 per cent increase in funding since 2017-18
  • $15 million to deliver expanded summer learning opportunities
  • $92.9 million increase in Special Education Grant funding through the GSN where it is projected to increase to over $3.25 billion, the highest amount ever provided in Special Education Grant funding
  • $304 million in time-limited additional staffing supports, through the COVID-19 Learning Recovery Fund as part of the GSN. This funding will go towards the hiring of an estimated 3,000 front line staff – including teachers, early childhood educators, educational assistants, and other education workers to address learning recovery

The government is also continuing to provide $1.4 billion for the repair and renewal of schools for the 2022-23 school year.

In the 2022-2023 school year, the following GSN funding will be allocated to the following school boards in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock:

School Board2022-2023 Projected GSN Funding
Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB$434,757,722 million
Trillium Lakelands DSB$218,553,275 million
Durham DSB$862,549,944 million
Durham Catholic DSB$263,077,781 million
Peterborough V N C Catholic DSB$188,708,404 million

“No government in Ontario history has invested more in public education, tutoring supports, mental health, and special education than ours led by Premier Ford,” said Minister Lecce. “We are bridging learning gaps that have emerged over the past years through a massive increase in small group tutoring programs and through the expansion of mental health supports to benefit children across all schools in Ontario.” 

The Ontario Government’s $600 million Learning Recovery Action Plan will help students recover from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic and will be available to students this year and into next school year. $175 million is being invested to expand access to free publicly funded tutoring in small groups after school, during school, on weekends and over the summer. This province-wide program will start in April 2022 and continue until December 31, 2022 to ensure continuity of access to tutoring to ensure students can catch-up as they start the next school year.

The plan leverages and expands proven, high-yield programs and supports, and introduces new initiatives to address critical gaps, with the following five pillars:

  • Introducing comprehensive tutoring supports for students through school boards that will also include partnerships with community organizations
  • Supporting student resilience and mental well being
  • Strengthening numeracy and literacy skills
  • Modernizing curriculum and programs to emphasize job and life skills
  • Resuming EQAO assessments to measure and assess learning levels

As part of its commitment to support student mental health and well-being in 2022-23, Ontario will be investing more than $90 million including $10 million in new funding, of which $5 million is to be used for evidence based mental health programs and resources. This funding will help to retain the existing mental health workers in schools, including the 180 mental health professionals that are providing critical supports directly to students in secondary schools across the province.

In addition, the Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, will engage with a wide range of stakeholders to leverage the best available evidence on emerging student mental health needs. Consultations are expected to start in summer 2022.

The mental health components of the learning recovery plan may include:

  • Mandatory professional development on mental health for educators
  • Working with the Ministry of Health to consult with stakeholders to leverage the best available evidence on emerging student mental health needs and the potential of a graduation requirement on resilience and mental well-being
  • Continuing to support student resilience and well-being with the following goals:
  • mentally healthy classrooms and learning environments
  • effective and responsive school mental health and addictions supports
  • connections to the broader comprehensive system of mental health care.

The Ontario government also announced $26 million to renew funding for school-focused nurses in public health units, with up to 625 nurses supporting student health and well-being, along with and infection prevention and control plans and other supports to keep schools as safe as possible.

QUICK FACTS

  • The Ministry of Education provides operating funding to Ontario’s 72 district school boards and 10 school authorities through the annual GSN education funding model. Funding to school boards is provided on a combination of per-student, per-school, and per-board basis.
  • Since August 2020, more than $600 million has been allocated to improve ventilation and filtration in schools as part of the province’s efforts to protect against COVID-19. These investments have resulted in improvements to existing ventilation systems; deployment of over 70,000 HEPA filter units and other ventilation devices to schools, with an additional 3,000 HEPA units being provided; upgrades to school ventilation infrastructure; and increased transparency through public posting of school board standardized ventilation measure reports.
  • As part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve and modernize infrastructure, Ontario announced over $565 million in the 2021-22 school year to build 26 new schools and 20 permanent additions to existing schools, which will create new construction jobs and provide nearly 20,000 new student spaces across the province once complete.
  • In recognition of increasing demands for digital learning in the classroom and increased network capacity, Ontario will be investing an additional $40 million in the 2022-23 GSN, to support the cost of associated with network connectivity, infrastructure, security and related operations in schools and school board buildings as usage increases and technology evolves.
  • Under the Broadband Modernization Program, all schools across Ontario are equipped to provide adequate, reliable access to all students for online learning.

FEBRUARY 15, 2022

$150,000 OTF Grant creates adds to Fitness programs at local Centre

Minden Hills, ON – On Tuesday, local MPP Laurie Scott stopped by the S.G. Nesbitt Memorial Arena to see the results of a $150,000 Capital grant awarded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in 2019. Thanks to the funds, the Township of Minden Hills has been able to improve its recreational infrastructure with the purchase of a portable and retractable stage and adding lots of new fitness equipment to the facility.

“This new equipment is great news for Haliburton County residents that allows even more people to enjoy the new community centre and participate in fitness and recreational activities,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

The grant allowed the Township to add the new stage, purchase new fitness equipment (ranging from rackets to sports balls), four sets of posts and nets, retractable basketball backstops, a roll up divider curtains for the gym, as well as mobile equipment storage racks, tables and chairs. The project was completed in January and creates more opportunities for area residents to enjoy recreational activities, programs and events at the facility for years to come.

“The impact of this Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be underestimated,” said Craig Belfry, Director of Community Services. “This grant will allow the Township to foster more active lifestyles in the community, as this initiative is helping with infrastructure for unstructured and structured physical activities, and will have an impact on the lives of residents for years to come”

The Minden Hills Community Centre/S.G. Nesbitt Memorial Arena is committed to developing recreational opportunities in this new facility for everyone in the community. If you wish to enquire about recreational programming, please visit its website at: www.mindenhills.ca

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. Last year, nearly $112M was invested into 1,384 community projects and partnerships to build healthy and vibrant communities and strengthen the impact of Ontario’s non-profit sector. In 2020/21, OTF supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

FEBRUARY 14, 2022

Ontario Building New Long-Term Care Beds in Haliburton

HALIBURTON — The Ontario government is adding 68 new and 60 upgraded long-term care beds to a new building for Extendicare Haliburton in Haliburton. This is part of the government’s $6.4 billion commitment to build more than 30,000 net new beds by 2028 and 28,000 upgraded long-term care beds across the province.

“Our government has a plan to fix long-term care and a key part of that plan is building modern, safe, and comfortable homes for our seniors,” said Paul Calandra, Minister of Long-Term Care. “When this long-term care home in Haliburton is completed, 128 residents will have a new place to call home, near their family and friends.”

The upgraded and expanded Extendicare Haliburton will have a total of 128 long-term care beds in a brand new building. The home has proposed to offer specialized health care services to ensure residents have access to the care they need. Construction is expected to start in Fall 2023.

There are now 164 new and 60 upgraded long-term care beds in development, under construction or completed in Haliburton and Kawartha Lakes including the following projects:

  • 68 new and 60 upgraded beds allocated to Extendicare Haliburton, announced today and
  • 96 new beds at an Extendicare home in Lindsay.

The government has a plan to fix long-term care and to ensure Ontario’s seniors get the quality of care and quality of life they need and deserve both now and in the future. The plan is built on three pillars: staffing and care; accountability, enforcement, and transparency; and building modern, safe, comfortable homes for seniors.

QUOTES

“Our government is taking action to address the growing need for long-term care beds in Haliburton County. Today’s announcement will impact not only those who are waiting for a bed, it will also help reduce pressure on our local hospitals and Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program by creating a safe and appropriate care setting our senior community members deserve.” 

Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

“I’m very pleased to see the announcement for new and refurbished beds for long term care in Haliburton County. The need for improvements in LTC has become critical over the last few years and sadly Covid-19 has made that challenge very difficult for our health care professionals. Our thanks to the province for making long term care a priority for Haliburton and beyond.”

Liz Danielsen, Warden, Haliburton County

QUICK FACTS

  • As of today, Ontario now has over 22,000 new and over 17,000 upgraded beds in the development pipeline – which means more than 74 percent of the 30,000 net new beds being delivered are in the planning, construction and opening stages of the development process.
  • Ontario plans to invest an additional $3.7 billion, beginning in 2024-25, on top of the historic $2.68 billion already invested, to support this new series of allocations for the development of 10,000 net new and more than 12,000 upgraded beds across the province. These historic investments would bring the total to $6.4 billion since spring 2019.
  • Ontario is providing $868 million in 2021-2022 to cover the extraordinary costs of COVID-19 prevention and containment in long-term care homes. This additional funding will help ensure long-term care homes have the resources they need to protect the health and safety of residents, staff and caregivers and to help homes maintain sufficient staffing levels to support residents.

FEBRUARY 10, 2022

Ontario Strengthening Services for Survivors of Violence and Exploitation

The Ontario government is addressing the growing strain on services due to COVID-19 by investing $3.6 million to rural frontline agencies. Locally, the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton will be receiving $142,949 to support the Haliburton Emergency SafeSpace (HERS) program along with an additional $8,272 for training initiatives. The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre will also be receiving $55,088 to deliver crucial services and supports to survivors of human trafficking and women who experienced violence.

“The YWCA Peterborough Haliburton and Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre provide services to the most vulnerable members of our community,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “This funding will help ensure they can continue to deliver supports and operate local shelters during the pandemic, especially for those who are in rural and remote areas and face transportation barriers.”

“Victims of domestic violence and human trafficking require quality and timely support. This funding will strengthen the support our community offers for survivors,” MPP Dave Smith said. “This is part of our overall $307 million, nation-leading strategy to combat human trafficking and support survivors wherever we can,” MPP Smith added. 

The additional investment will provide agencies with more resources, strengthen culturally responsive supports for Indigenous women, and reduce geographic and transportation barriers which will significantly improve access to quality care and services to victims in rural and remote communities.

“YWCA Peterborough Haliburton deeply appreciates the support of the Ontario’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services for their commitment to continued funding for the Haliburton Emergency SafeSpace (HERS) program,” said Kim Dolan, Executive Director, YWCA Peterborough Haliburton. “Now more than ever, violence intervention services for women in geographically isolated areas in the province are in demand. Calls to HERS and the Women’s Centre from women experiencing gender-based violence have increased throughout the pandemic. We are here to help with safety planning, shelter from violence, and supportive counselling.”

“Someone’s location should not act as a barrier to access quality care and services,” said Jane McKenna, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues. “We want to make sure that everyone affected by violence and sexual exploitation receive the supports they need, no matter where they are in the province.”

The ministry will work collaboratively with rural service providers to deliver targeted localized supports and implement projects that build positive outcomes for women living in or from rural communities.

Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre Project Description:

This funding will be used to support a collaborative project between Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) and Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle (NASC). KSAC and NASC will provide events, conferences and workshops within our First Nations communities (Curve Lake First Nation, Alderville First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation). This project will include public education in these areas to provide education and prevention on Human-Trafficking and Exploitation.  With the support of both KSAC and NASC, there will also be opportunity to discuss our services and supports and provide those services to the individuals in these communities who are survivors of human trafficking, current victims of human trafficking and supports to prevent others at risk of human trafficking.  

The $3.6 million investment will also help promote awareness of available local services, address service gaps and build community capacity to support women in rural and remote communities who have experienced violence and sex trafficking.

FEBRUARY 7, 2022

Ontario Supports Modernization of Small and Rural Communities in Haliburton County

The Ontario government is providing over $28 million to help 322 small and rural municipalities find better and more efficient ways to deliver local services for residents and businesses. The funding is being delivered through the Municipal Modernization Program and will support the following projects in Haliburton County:

MunicipalityProjectFunding Allocation
County of HaliburtonParamedic Service Master Plan$101,760
Township of Minden HillsHuman Resources Information System Modernization$81,357

“This funding will help municipalities continue to provide the critical services they deliver to community members,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “Modernizing service delivery and identifying new ways to be more efficient and effective is more important than ever as our local municipalities recover from the impacts of the COVID-19.”

Municipalities can use the funding to conduct reviews of local services and administrative operations to find efficiencies, including accelerating the creation of new housing through streamlined development approvals and working with neighbouring municipalities to share services.

“We are very pleased to be successful for modernization funding to develop a master plan for Haliburton County Paramedic Service. Development of a comprehensive master plan for the county is extremely important for us to determine the future requirements of our ambulance service and community paramedic program so that we can continue to provide exceptional patient care to both residents and visitors in Haliburton County,” said Tim Waite, Chief/Director for Haliburton County Paramedic Service.

“We’re all very excited to be receiving provincial modernization funding to complete a Master Plan for our EMS department. For some time now, Haliburton has been experiencing substantially increased call volumes, pressures associated with transfers for diagnostics as well as managing the new community paramedicine programs. Given the changing atmosphere we have found the need to carefully study our management structure, assess our existing bases and determine where additional resources will be required. Haliburton has seen considerable growth and we need to carve out the best path to move forward and continue to offer exemplary service to our residents,” said Liz Danielsen, Warden, Haliburton County.

“COVID-19 has highlighted the need for municipalities to be as efficient and nimble as possible, while ensuring services remain financially sustainable today and in the future,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Through the Municipal Modernization Program, our government continues to support our municipal partners to operate more efficiently and streamline processes to deliver high-quality, sustainable services for residents and businesses, when and where they need them.”

With the Municipal Modernization Program, as well as the new Streamline Development Approval Fund and the Audit and Accountability Fund, our government is helping municipalities across the province make their planning and approvals processes more efficient in order to unlock and fast-track new housing to address the housing supply crisis.

FEBRUARY 3, 2022

Ontario Helping Non-Profits in Haliburton County Respond to the Challenges of COVID-19

The Ontario government is providing close to $46 million to support 186 municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit tourism, culture, sport and recreation organizations experiencing significant pressures due to COVID-19.

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 129 – Haliburton will be receiving $104,100 to make important facility upgrades and the Municipality of Dysart et al will be receiving $162,000 to renovate and transform two outdoor rinks into multi-purpose courts for hockey, pickleball and basketball as well as add benches for the rest area.

“This funding will help address much-needed upgrades and repairs so community members can continue to enjoy outdoor sports facilities and the services our local Legion offers,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “These improvements will help ensure people across Haliburton County will have the opportunity to safely reconnect with the many things that make this community special.”

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our government has supported those struggling the most,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. “These capital grants will help municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations make repairs or upgrades needed to their sport and recreation facilities to adapt to the pressures of the pandemic so they can continue to deliver programming critical to the economic and social well-being of communities across the province once their doors reopen.”

In total, the province’s Community Building Fund is investing $105 million to support community arts and culture, heritage, tourism, sport and recreation organizations that are experiencing significant financial pressures due to COVID-19. The fund is administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through two streams: Operating and Capital. The Capital stream, which closed on September 29, 2021, is providing organizations across the province with support for:

  • Construction or renovation expenses, such as materials, labour for construction and/or installation.
  • Fixed equipment costs, such as large-scale fixed equipment for installation (examples include heating systems, exhaust and air conditioning systems).
  • Developmental costs or project management costs.

For a full list of Community Building Fund: Capital stream recipients, visit the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s website.

JANUARY 24, 2022

Community Care Peterborough Highlights How a $99,600 OTF Grant Has Made a Difference

Peterborough, ON (January 21, 2022): On Friday, Community Care Peterborough held a virtual meeting with MPP Dave Smith, MPP Laurie Scott and MPP David Piccini, and Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) volunteer Elizabeth Finnie-Hunt, to speak to how a $99,600 Resilient Community Fund grant awarded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) in late 2020 has made a difference. The Resilient Communities Fund was created by OTF to help the non-profit sector to rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

“Community Care Peterborough delivers essential and critical services to our most vulnerable members in the community,” said Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha. “Their team of volunteers, donors and staff have supported our residents throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. This capital investment will strengthen Community Care, enabling them to grow and further their good work in our community.”

Over the last year, Community Care Peterborough, which involve several communities, used the grant to help fund four key elements in its recovery plan: a new strategic plan; to reinvigorate its fundraising methods; build awareness of the agency; and to expand its virtual care capabilities.

“Our Government believes in the importance of supporting community based organizations that improve the health and wellbeing of the people we serve,” said the Hon. David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South. “These unprecedented times have highlighted the importance of having a strong health care system and we are incredibly grateful for the work Community Care Peterborough does to support better patient centred care and the social determinants of health.”

Funds from the year-long grant were helped with staffing and administrative costs, guidance for developing new strategies, purchasing new donor data management software, and technical equipment to expand online capabilities and communications, as well as health and safety supplies for rural offices.

“Community Care is a staple in Peterborough County and this funding will help community members access new and improved virtual services that are so important to residents,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

Over the course of the pandemic, Community Care Peterborough has seen an increased need for the essential services and wasn’t able to host in-person programs or its usual fundraising activities. It saw the closure of its thrift stores for extended period of times.

“We adapted and extended programs to help even more residents of the City and County of Peterborough through these difficult times,” said Danielle Belair, Executive Director, Community Care Peterborough. “While we will remain COVID aware and vigilant, we are not only continuing to moving forward with our mission, but we can proudly say we are leading forward, with our new strategic plan. We undertook a facilitated strategic planning process to help us uncover ways to enhance our organization’s fundraising capacity and where to refocus our organizations programs and services so that they can reach their full potential for the communities we serve. Also as part of our funding, we were able to increase our staff capacity by hiring Donor Relations Assistant, Laura Strongitharm, to help us transition into our new software,” added Belair.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. Last year, nearly $112M was invested into 1,384 community projects and partnerships to build healthy and vibrant communities and strengthen the impact of Ontario’s non-profit sector. In 2020/21, OTF supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

For more information about Community Care Peterborough visit www.commcareptbo.org

JANUARY 19, 2022

Ontario Gives Boost to Support Municipal Public Transportation

The Ontario government is providing $641,771 to support the expansion and improvement of public transit services in the City of Kawartha Lakes and $23,618 to support the Municipality of Dysart et al. The funding is part of the province’s Gas Tax program which will allocate $375.6 million this year to 107 municipalities that deliver public transit.  

“Our government knows that helping municipalities sustain and improve public transit systems is more important than ever during COVID-19,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “That’s why we’ve topped up this year’s Gas Tax funding which can be used to extend service hours, buy transit vehicles, add routes, improve accessibility or upgrade infrastructure.”

Funding for the Gas Tax program is determined by the number of litres of gasoline sold in the province during the previous year. Municipalities that support public transit services in their community receive two cents per litre of provincial Gas Tax revenue.

To make up for reduced gas sales due to COVID-19, this year’s Gas Tax funding includes one-time additional funding of $120.4 million to ensure municipalities can support their transit systems.

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen how critical public transit is for frontline workers and for Ontarians who depend on these services to get to medical appointments, the grocery store and other important locations,” said Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation. “Gas Tax funding remains a vital source of long-term transit funding that municipalities can rely on to help operate and expand existing public transit services – ensuring people have access to safe and reliable transportation when they need it.”

JANUARY 13, 2022

Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes Begins Construction on New Community Health Centre

Lindsay, Ont. (January 13, 2022) – Today, Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes (CCCKL) broke ground on its new Community Health Centre (CHC) construction project. The building, situated across from the Ross Memorial Hospital at 21 Angeline St. N., will be home to the organization’s new CHC, including all of its primary health care services, a dental clinic with three operatories, and office space for a few clinical and administrative staff.

“Today we’ve taken a step forward not only as Community Care, but as a community,” said Michael Anderson, Chair of Community Care’s Board of Directors. “It’s a step toward health equity, quality care for those who need it, and toward fulfilling our mission of building healthy communities through care and support.”

Ontario’s Ministry of Health provided $11.9 million in capital funding toward the new building including purchase of the land, demolition of the old OPP building that previously stood there, and construction. Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, has strongly championed the project and was on-site today to mark the occasion. 

“Community Care is a vital part of this community, and we’re so pleased to be part of making this dream a reality,” said MPP Scott. Mayor Andy Letham and the City of Kawartha Lakes Councillors have also provided key support to enable the project and thanks were extended by the speakers. 

Construction of the 15,991 square foot building is expected to take 13 months, with occupancy expected in the spring of 2023. Lett Architects Inc. of Peterborough designed the building, and Chart Construction Company of Woodbridge is the builder.

The planning process for the new building began over a decade ago and has been guided by CCCKL’s Board and leadership teams, past and present, and the CCCKL Building Committee, chaired by Glenn Wilcox, Principal of Lindsay-based Wilcox Architects Incorporated. The new CHC means that for the first time in its 36-year history, CCCKL will have its own building dedicated to providing quality primary and dental care for clients through the CHC Model of Health and Wellbeing.

About Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes: Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes provides a comprehensive range of health and support services for people of all ages in the City of Kawartha Lakes. In partnership, it promotes health and independent living through programs and services that meet the needs of its community. To learn more about CCCKL, visit www.ccckl.ca.  

DECEMBER 21, 2021

Ontario Building New Child Care Spaces for Families in Brock Township

SUNDERLAND—The Ontario government is investing $1.6 million to create 49 new child care spaces at Sunderland Public School to help working families in Brock Township. This investment is part our government’s commitment to supporting affordable and accessible child care in communities across the province.

Once complete, the project will provide 1 infant room, 1 toddler room and 1 preschool room through the province’s Early Years Capital Program.

“Our government is investing in the next generation of Brock Township and delivering real support to hard-working families with a $1.6 million investment that will create 49 new child care spaces,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “We know the pandemic has left families in need of additional supports and that’s why our government introduced the Ontario Child Care Tax Credit and provided over $1.7 billion in direct support to families during the pandemic.”

The expansion at Sunderland Public School in Durham District School Board is part of a provincewide investment of more than $600 million to support school and child care spaces. The overall investment will support 78 school and child care related projects. As part of this investment, the province dedicated more than $95 million to create more than 3,000 new child care spaces through renovations and additions at 55 child care centres across Ontario.

“Access to childcare is vital to support our students and their families. I want to thank the Province of Ontario and welcome this timely investment to increase childcare capacity at Sunderland Public School. We look forward to starting construction on this project.” – Chair Carolyn Morton, Trustee for the Townships of Brock, Scugog, Uxbridge.

Across Ontario, the province is supporting the creation of 40 infant rooms (400 new spaces), 59 toddler rooms (885 new spaces), 71 preschool rooms (1,704 new spaces), and seven family age group rooms (105 new spaces).

The announcement supports Ontario’s child care plan which focuses on making child care more affordable, providing more choice and availability for families, reducing red tape and administrative burden, improving quality, and effectively delivering high standards of care.

“After years of neglect under the previous government, we are stepping up to support families by investing in affordable and accessible child care that meets their needs,” said Minister Lecce. “These investments are key to our economic recovery and further evidence of how our government continues to lead the way when it comes to investing in child care.”

As part of this plan to make child care affordable, safe and accessible, Ontario has committed up to $1 billion to create up to 30,000 new child care spaces over five years. To date, over 23,000 new spaces have been approved and builds upon Ontario’s existing and well-established child care infrastructure giving families more choices and flexibility.

The Ontario government has allocated more than $600 million to support ventilation improvements in schools across Ontario as part of its plans for a safer return to school. The Durham District School Board has benefited from an investment of $9.4 million for ventilation improvements and has over 660 HEPA filter units in place.

DECEMBER 8, 2021

Building Ontario with Over $7 Million for Critical Infrastructure Projects in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

The Ontario government is providing $7,264,988 to help local municipalities build and repair critical infrastructure in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. This investment is part of our government’s plan to build Ontario by supporting critical infrastructure projects that generate local economic growth and create new jobs.

“Our government has heard from small, rural and northern municipalities across the province on the need for adjustments to the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) formula and that’s why we are taking action,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “Municipalities in HKLB will greatly benefit from this significant increase in funding to help get shovels in the ground sooner on important local infrastructure projects that help strengthen our communities and support long-term economic recovery.”

Today’s announcement is part of the government’s additional $1 billion investment to help build and repair roads, bridges, water and wastewater infrastructure in small, rural and northern communities. The multi-year funding is being delivered through the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) and will bring the government’s total investment to nearly $2 billion over the next five years.

Local municipal funding is as follows:

Municipality2021 Grant2022 Grant
City of Kawartha Lakes$2,002,027$4,521,773
County of Haliburton$283,453$630,334
Municipality of Highlands East$50,000$100,000
Township of Algonquin Highlands$50,000$100,000
Township of Brock$411,545$809,855
Township of Cavan-Monaghan$117,424$511,608
Township of Dysart et al$159,429$364,433
Township of Minden Hills$102,081$226,985

“Our small, rural and northern communities will be at the forefront of our efforts to build Ontario for the future,” said Premier Doug Ford. “With this investment, we are saying ‘yes’ to helping these communities build and repair the vital infrastructure they need to keep their communities working for decades to come.”

Funding allocations will be based on a formula that recognizes the different needs and economic conditions of communities across the province. The new formula will include an increased funding minimum of $100,000 for all communities per year, up from $50,000 over previous years.

“Communities are the heartbeat of this province and we know they are facing unique infrastructure needs and challenges, especially as we navigate through the pandemic,” said Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Our government has been with them every step of the way. When we were told more funding supports were needed, we listened and acted in a meaningful way by providing the largest OCIF increase since the start of the program. By doing so, we’re providing stability and predictability to small, rural and northern communities to repair, upgrade, and modernize their critical infrastructure so that they are safer, healthier, and more reliable for all.”

The Province’s investment in OCIF is part of the 2021 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review: Build Ontario. The plan lays out how the government will build Ontario’s future with shovels in the ground for highways, hospitals, long-term care, housing, and high-speed internet. To ensure all families, workers and businesses in the province have a better and brighter future, our government’s planned infrastructure investments over the next decade total more than $148 billion.

OCTOBER 29, 2021

Ontario Announces Municipalities’ 2022 Funding Under the $500 Million Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund

The Ontario government is announcing 2022 funding allocations under the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF), the Province’s main general assistance grant to municipalities.

Municipalities in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock will receive $16,047,900 in funding allocations to provide them with flexibility to address the needs of their communities, based on their own local priorities.

“This is great news for our local municipalities,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “Our government recognizes the importance of stable and adaptable OMPF program funding to communities across the province.”

Local municipal funding is as follows:

Municipality OMPF 2022
Township of Algonquin Highlands$1,349,000
Township of Brock$885,800
Township of Cavan Monaghan$520,200
Municipality of Dysart et al$1,889,200
County of Haliburton$174,600
Municipality of Highlands East$2,000,100
City of Kawartha Lakes$7,371,500
Township of Minden Hills$1,857,500

Ontario has been consulting with municipalities on their priorities for the OMPF. Throughout these discussions, municipal partners have stressed the importance of stability and predictability, particularly during these uncertain times. Ontario is responding by maintaining both the structure of the OMPF and the program envelope at $500 million for 2022, as committed at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s annual conference in August 2021.

“Predictable and timely financial support from the Province is essential for budget planning in small and rural municipalities,” said AMO President Graydon Smith. “The early rollout of stable 2022 Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund allocations sets the stage for effective budget planning for the for year ahead.”  

OCTOBER 22, 2021

Ontario Expands Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care Program to Kawartha Lakes

The Ontario government is providing up to $82.5 million over three years to expand the province’s Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program to 22 additional communities including Kawartha Lakes. This program is fully funded by the provincial government and operational across 33 Ontario communities including Haliburton County.

“After decades of neglect, our government has and is continuing to take action to fix Ontario’s long-term care sector,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “The expansion of the Community Paramedicine for Long-Term Care program to Kawartha Lakes will support our local seniors by providing them high-quality care when and where they need in their own homes, while they wait for a bed in long-term care.”

The program works alongside primary care and home and community care to provide the following services to eligible seniors:

  • Access to health services 24-7, through in-home and remote methods, such as online supports;
  • Non-emergency home visits and in-home testing procedures;
  • Ongoing monitoring of vital signs to prevent escalation of chronic medical conditions;
  • Assessments, referrals, diagnostic procedures, and point-of care testing.

“The City of Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service is pleased to see the long-term care community paramedicine program expanded to our community. Community Paramedic programs have demonstrated that they are scalable and sustainable solutions which bridge identified gaps in care locally. This investment will support seniors by providing quality care and service needed to live longer and in comfort of their homes. It will provide our seniors, their families and caregivers comfort and peace of mind they deserve while potentially delaying the need for long-term care,” said Randy Mellow, CMM III – EMS Exec/EMP Chief of Paramedics, City of Kawartha Lakes.

Early feedback from participating communities indicates reduction in rates of hospital admissions and an increased integration with primary care.

The program is fully funded by the provincial government and is operated in partnership with municipalities and District Social Services Administration Boards.

QUICK FACTS

Additional Resources:

OCTOBER 15, 2021

Ontario Investing over $4 Million to Immediately Increase Staffing in LTC, Leading to More Direct Care for Residents in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

The Ontario government will provide up to $270 million this year to long-term care homes across the province to increase staffing levels, leading to more direct care for residents. This includes $4,199,774 for long-term care homes in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. This is part of the province’s commitment to ensure long-term care residents receive—on average—four hours of direct care per day by 2024-25. It was also announced that as part of the government’s plan to fix long-term care, it will bring forward legislation that will enshrine its commitment to four hours of care into law.

These funds will increase care for residents at:

  • Lakeview Manor, in Beaverton, will receive up to $530,758 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $3,250,824 annually more than their current funding.
  • Victoria Manor Home for the Aged, in Lindsay, will receive up to $591,316 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $3,621,732 annually more than their current funding.
  • Highland Wood, in Haliburton, will receive up to $106,861 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $654,528 annually more than their current funding.
  • Bon Air Long-Term Care Residence, in Cannington, will receive up to $138,925 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $850,896 annually more than their current funding.
  • Springdale County Manor, in Peterborough, will receive up to $242,225 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $1,483,596 annually more than their current funding.
  • Case Manor Care Community, in Bobcaygeon, will receive up to $341,965 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,094,504 annually more than their current funding.
  • Extendicare – Haliburton, in Haliburton, will receive up to $156,738 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $959,976 annually more than their current funding.
  • Caressant Care Nursing and Retirement Home, in Lindsay, will receive up to $434,584 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,661,756 annually more than their current funding.
  • Frost Manor, in Lindsay, will receive up to $170,985 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $1,047,252 annually more than their current funding.
  • Extendicare – Kawartha Lakes, in Lindsay, will receive up to $227,978 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $1,396,332 annually more than their current funding.
  • Fenelon Court, in Fenelon Falls, will receive up to $238,665 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $1,461,780 annually more than their current funding.
  • Centennial Place, in Millbrook, will receive up to $455,957 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,792,664 annually more than their current funding.
  • Caressant Care on McLaughlin Road, in Lindsay, will receive up to $341,965 for additional staffing this year to increase the hours of direct care for residents. By the year 2024-2025, the home will receive $2,094,504 annually more than their current funding.

“This funding will allow long-term care homes in our community to hire additional staff so they can provide a better quality of care to local residents,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “This is part of our government’s plan to train, hire, and retain thousands of new staff over the next four years.”

“We know that more qualified staff means more daily care for residents,” said Rod Phillips, Minister of Long-Term Care. “Hiring more staff is part of our government’s plan to fix long-term care and to improve the quality of care residents receive and the quality of life they experience.” 

Currently, residents receive an average of two hours and 45 minutes of direct care from nurses and personal support workers. This funding will increase the daily average to 3 hours, per resident per day by the end of this fiscal year. This funding also includes $42.8M to homes to increase care by allied health care professionals (such as physiotherapists and social workers) by 10% this year.

The government is investing $4.9 billion over four years to boost direct resident care to an average of four hours daily by increasing care staff by more than 27,000 people. Hiring thousands of new staff at long-term homes and increasing the amount of care they deliver each year will be made possible by annual funding increases to homes:

  • $270 million in 2021-22
  • $673 million in 2022-23
  • $1.25 billion in 2023-24
  • $1.82 billion in 2024-25

QUICK FACTS

  • The Ontario government has established the Staffing Supply Accelerator Group to support the objectives of the long-term care staffing plan. The group includes participation from major stakeholders and champions the innovation, expansion and acceleration of education and training opportunities to help meet the demand for long-term care staff.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

OCTOBER 14, 2021

Non-Profits in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock to Receive Support through the Community Building Fund

The Ontario government is providing more than $46 million to support 648 non-profit tourism, culture, sport and recreation organizations through the Community Building Fund’s Operating stream, including 10 organizations in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. The funding will be used to help them recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and deliver much-needed programs and services in our community.

Locally, the following organizations will benefit from funding:

OrganizationFunding
Lindsay Little Theatre $ 12,400.00
Lindsay Agricultural Society $ 250,000.00
Boys & Girls Clubs of Kawartha Lakes $ 128,800.00
The Lindsay Gallery $ 50,000.00
Globus Theatre $ 50,000.00
4th Line Theatre $ 100,000.00
Maple Leaf Cavan FC (MLCFC) $ 50,000.00
The Beaverton Thorah Eldon Historical Society $ 17,400.00
Highlands Summer Festival $ 14,600.00
Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre $ 50,000.00

“We know COVID-19 has presented challenges for our local non-profits and that’s why our government is providing grants to ensure they can continue to provide the services and experiences our community members miss,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our government has been committed to supporting those struggling the most,” said Minister MacLeod. “The Community Building Fund was designed with this in mind – to enhance the quality of life for Ontarians and support local jobs. These grants will help non-profit organizations across Ontario sustain operations– providing funding so they can adapt to the pressures of the pandemic and continue to deliver programming that is critical to the economic and social well-being of communities across the province.”

Additionally, three organizations in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock will also be receiving funding through the Reconnect Festival and Event Program designed to help festival and event organizers adapt to new public health measures with virtual, drive-in/drive-through and other safe offerings.

Locally, the following organizations will benefit from funding:

OrganizationFunding
Globus Theatre Inc. $ 167,194
The 4Th Line Theatre Company Of Peterborough $ 92,842
Lindsay Agricultural Society $ 170,850

The Community Building Fund launched earlier this year as a part of the 2020 Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover and is administered by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) through two streams: Operating and Capital. The Operating stream closed on June 1, 2021, and is providing organizations across the province with funding support for:

  • Essential expenditures, such as staff salaries and fixed operational costs, including utilities, rent, lease, telephone and communication lines/services.
  • Equipment costs, programs, services, and adapting to public health measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as equipment for changing technology, health and safety, and personal protective equipment.
  • Innovation, digital and mobile web/virtual costs for the delivery of products and experiences.

QUICK FACTS

  • The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, working to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario through investments of local grants to non-profit organizations. Its programs support the arts, culture, heritage, sports and recreation, human and social services, and environment sectors across the province.
  • Municipalities, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations in the sport and recreation sectors are eligible to apply for the Community Building Fund – Capital Stream. For more information, eligibility requirements and deadlines, please visit otf.ca.
  • For organizations interested in applying for the Community Building Fund, OTF will provide support through information sessions and one-on-one application coaching calls. More information about OTF supports is available at otf.ca.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

2021 Budget – Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy

News Release: Ontario Supports Tourism, Culture, Sport and Recreation Organizations

Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.

OCTOBER 7, 2021

Ontario Supporting Health Care in Kawartha Lakes

To help strengthen the financial stability of public hospitals, the Ontario government is providing Ross Memorial Hospital with $804,400 to help cover historic working funds deficits. The Ontario government is also investing $901,731 this year to support critical health care infrastructure upgrades, repairs and maintenance for Ross Memorial Hospital.

The funding to address working funds deficits is a part of the over $1.2 billion investment previously announced to help hospitals recover from financial pressures created and worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, while ensuring they can continue providing the high-quality care Ontarians need and deserve. This funding will also help to ensure that Ontario’s hospitals are able to respond to any scenario as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves.

Additionally, through the Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund and the Community Infrastructure Renewal Fund, the government’s $182.6 million investment will ensure that patients can continue to access the care they need in safe, comfortable environments and that the local health care system is prepared to respond to any scenario as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve.

“These crucial investments will help build capacity and ensure our hospitals have the tools they need,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “We will continue to support our local hospitals so they can continue to provide the high-quality care residents deserve within their own communities”.

“Ross Memorial Hospital is grateful for the support of the Ministry of Health in helping address our infrastructure needs. This funding will allow us to complete the replacement our underground diesel tanks and installation of the new above ground tank to align with current environmental best practices. Through our Pharmacy Clean Room project, we are able to support safe and effective medication delivery for our patients by meeting the required safety standards,” said Kelly Isfan, Ross Memorial Hospital President and CEO.

“Upgrading and maintaining hospitals and community health infrastructure is one more way our government is ensuring Ontarians receive the exceptional care when they need it and closer to home,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “These crucial investments will help build the capacity needed to end hallway health care, while ensuring our hospitals have the tools they need to improve the quality of care for patients and continue responding to COVID-19.”

Through the 2021 Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy, the government is providing a total of $1.8 billion in additional investments to hospitals in 2021-22. This includes funding to create more than 3,100 additional hospital beds to increase capacity, as well as an increase of $778 million in operational funding to ensure all publicly funded hospitals will receive a minimum 1 per cent increase to help them keep pace with patient needs and to increase access to high-quality care for patients and families across Ontario.

AUGUST 16, 2021

Ontario Providing More Than $2.3 Million in Additional Support to Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County

The Ontario government is providing $2,392,400 to help the City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County deliver critical services, create longer-term housing solutions and keep vulnerable people safe.

“With this new investment, the City of Kawartha Lakes Consolidated Municipal Service Manager has received a total of $8,337,030 for the administration of Social Services programs in the City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County through the Social Services Relief Fund,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “This funding will support local shelters, create longer-term housing solutions and help vulnerable community members affected by COVID-19.”

Today’s announcement is part of the province’s additional $307 million investment to help municipalities and Indigenous community partners respond to COVID-19. This investment builds upon the $765 million dollars of Social Services Relief Funding (SSRF) announced in 2020- 2021, for a total support to communities of over $1 billion.

“We’d like to thank the Ontario government and MPP Laurie Scott for this new phase of funding,” commented Rod Sutherland, Director of Human Services, City of Kawartha Lakes. “The Social Services Relief Fund has provided direct support to many vulnerable groups in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County, including those who are homeless, at-risk of becoming homeless and those in need of additional support to meet their basic needs. It is hoped that this funding will further assist in meeting short term COVID-19 recovery needs, as well as help build longer term solutions.”

“Municipalities have been on the frontlines of Ontario’s pandemic response and vaccine rollout, while continuing to protect our most vulnerable populations, including homeless populations,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Our government is committed to ensuring municipalities have the resources they need to keep their communities safe, and today’s funding will help our local partners deliver critical services, support vulnerable people, and unlock affordable housing in their communities.”

Municipalities and Indigenous community partners can use the funding to protect homeless shelter staff and residents, add to rent banks, build affordable housing, and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks and/or emergencies.

QUICK FACTS

  • Ontario launched the Social Services Relief Fund in March 2020 to help protect the health and safety of the province’s most vulnerable people during COVID-19.
  • Today’s province-wide investment includes $21 million of funding under the previously announced Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative (COCHI) that is being allocated to help support community housing.
  • As part of its Community Housing Renewal Strategy and response to COVID-19, Ontario is investing approximately $1.3 billion in 2021-2022 to help sustain, repair and grow community housing and help end homelessness. This includes the Social Services Relief Fund.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

JULY 28, 2021

Ontario Government Supporting Agricultural and Horticultural Societies in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

The Ontario government is taking action to help support local agricultural and horticultural societies with $1.1 million in additional funding to offer continued support for agricultural and horticultural societies impacted by COVID-19.

The government will provide up to $5,000 for each eligible agricultural society and up to $1,500 for each eligible horticultural society, equal to their 2019 grants. This is the latest investment from the provincial government to strengthen Ontario’s agri-food sector, ensuring sustainability of agriculture and fostering vibrant rural economies. This latest funding follows the January 2021 investment of $5 million to help support agricultural and horticultural societies impacted by cancelled events in 2020.

Locally, eligible agricultural and horticultural societies in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock will receive a collective total of over $26,000 in financial support through their 2020 grants, equal to the amount they received in 2019.

“The pandemic continues to place financial pressures on agricultural and horticultural societies and that’s why providing this additional funding is a priority for our government,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “These organizations play a critical role in our communities by providing education on the importance of agriculture and supporting our farmers”.

The funding will enable agricultural and horticultural societies to offset membership and revenue losses so they can continue to meet their immediate financial needs and work towards planning future events within health and safety guidelines.

The current grant program requires agricultural and horticultural societies to operate their fairs, events and activities in order to qualify for funding. This automatic one-time payment replaces the 2021 grant so that agriculture and horticultural societies can receive the grant without having to hold their traditional fair or complete their community projects.

Supporting our rich agri-food industry – a $47 billion industry in Ontario – is an important element in Ontario’s economic recovery. Funding agricultural and horticultural societies at this critical time is one piece of a puzzle to sustaining and growing the agri-food industry as the province recovers from the impacts of COVID-19.

QUICK FACTS

  • The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies is a provincial association representing more than 200 agricultural societies across the province.
  • The Ontario Horticultural Association is a volunteer charitable organization that encourages interest in gardening and related environmental issues representing 280 horticultural societies from across the province.
  • Ontario is working to address the economic impacts that COVID-19 has posed to many of the organizations that make up the fabric of our communities, and is now delivering an estimated $13.5 billion in total support for people and job creators as part of Ontario’s Action Plan.

August 2020: Announcing agricultural and horticultural societies can receive their 2019 grant without having to hold their traditional fair or complete their community projects.

JULY 21, 2021

Province Funding Projects in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock to Help Protect the Great Lakes

The Ontario government is investing $94,500 for two local projects in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock to help protect and improve the Great Lakes.

“This is a great initiative to support local projects that protect and restore coastal, shoreline and nearshore areas of the Great Lakes,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

These projects are part of 44 community-based projects to receive $1.9 million in funding through the Great Lakes Local Action Fund.

“The health of the Great Lakes is closely connected to our province’s health and prosperity – supplying water to our communities, sustaining traditional activities of Indigenous peoples and providing healthy ecosystems for recreation and tourism,” said David Piccini, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. “This funding allows local organizations and groups to take environmental actions in their own communities – building a better future for clean, green growth.”

Organization NameProject NameProject DescriptionFunding Amount
Haliburton County Community Co-operativeTri-Region Community-Based Benthos Biomonitoring ProjectCreating a sustainable, citizen-based model of benthos biomonitoring in the Haliburton, Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes areas to identify early indicators of lake issues.$50,000.00
Kawartha ConservationEnhancing nearshore water quality and aquatic plant management in the Kawartha Lakes, Lake Ontario Drainage BasinImprove water quality and aquatic plant management through citizen science and implementing cost-effective recommendations to improve nearshore conditions along waterfronts.$44,500.00

Supporting local actions that protect the Great Lakes is a key commitment in our plan to protect our land, air and water.  

QUICK FACTS

  • Ontario launched a call for applications for the Great Lakes Local Action Fund in the fall of 2020.
  • 20 per cent of the world’s fresh water is found in the Great Lakes, making it the largest lake system in the world.
  • 95 per cent of the province’s agricultural lands are in the basin of the Great Lakes.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

JULY 15, 2021

Ontario Increasing Supports for Victims and Survivors of Human Trafficking in Kawartha Lakes

KAWARTHA LAKES – The Ontario government is investing more than $780,000 over the next five years in a new community-based program to provide more young victims and survivors of human trafficking in Kawartha Lakes with the services they need. With this funding, Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes will provide a four-month stabilization program for youth, including residential services, individualized programming and skills development. Providing better protection and increased supports for children and youth who have been sexually exploited or are at risk is a key focus of Ontario’s strategy to combat human trafficking.

“Programs created to support young victims and survivors of human trafficking are critical in their healing process, allowing them to rebuild their lives,” said Jane McKenna, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues. “Our investments will go a long way to increase services dedicated to children and youth who have been trafficked. They will also mean more young people have access to the help they need to stay safe and recover.”

This new program is funded through Ontario’s Anti-Human Trafficking Community Supports Fund to increase services across the province. The government is investing a total of $96 million in community-based services and Indigenous-led supports for victims and survivors of human trafficking over five years as part of the province’s Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy 2020-2025.

“For many decades, Women’s Resources has been a staple in our community, providing women and children with a safe haven as they flee from violence, abuse and sex trafficking. That’s why, I’m so pleased they’ve been awarded this funding for the new Survivor Stabilization Project,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock. “Victims of sex trafficking need a safe and secure environment to begin to heal from the trauma of this horrible crime and this new project will help provide a steady ground so victims can become survivors.”  

In total, 27 new projects are being funded through the Anti-Human Trafficking Community Supports and Indigenous-led Initiatives funds to provide a more comprehensive network of supports across the province. This investment is part of Ontario’s $307-million Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy, which aims to raise awareness, protect victims and intervene early, support survivors and hold offenders accountable.

“The trauma of human trafficking is significant. Emotional and physical recovery can be a long journey with victims returning to their abusers time and time again, out of fear and dependency,” said Lori Watson, Executive Director of Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes. “This funding will allow us to develop a stabilization program to support survivors from initial intake until they are established in secure housing, increasing their sense of safety, well-being and skills, all of which will mitigate the risk of revictimization.”

QUICK FACTS

  • Ontario is a hub for human trafficking, accounting for the majority of police-reported incidents in Canada.
  • In 2019, 65 per cent of known human trafficking victims identified by police were under the age of 25 and 22 per cent were under 18.
  • Ontario’s Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy represents the largest total investment in dedicated anti-human trafficking supports and services in Canada.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

JUNE 30, 2021

Ontario Supports the Modernization of Communities in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

The Ontario government is providing up to $458,750 to help improve the delivery of critical programs and services in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. The funding is being delivered through the Municipal Modernization Program and will support the following projects:

  • Township of Brock Digital Modernization Implementation
  • Township of Brock Corporate IT Strategic Plan
  • Township of Cavan Monaghan Information Technologies Modernization
  • City of Kawartha Lakes Fire Department Service Delivery Review

“COVID-19 has demonstrated the need to modernize the important programs and services municipalities provide,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “Not only will these projects help ensure community members will benefit from innovative and streamlined solutions, they will also save taxpayers’ dollars.”

Ontario is providing up to $24 million to support the modernization of 224 small and rural municipalities across the province. A total of 254 projects will receive funding under Intake 2 of Ontario’s Municipal Modernization Program.

Mayor Letham, City of Kawartha Lakes commented, “Kawartha Lakes Fire Service operates over an extensive geographic area with 20 stations. We employ approximately 350 staff, the majority of which are Volunteer Firefighters. Given the significant size of the service, and ongoing budgetary pressures associated with maintaining equipment and facilities, we will use the funding for a third-party review of the fire service budgets. We thank the Province, and our local MPP Laurie Scott, for their commitment to assist municipalities to modernize services to continue meeting the needs of our communities.”

“This funding will help the Township of Brock modernize service delivery and better assist local residents,” said John Grant, Mayor of the Township of Brock. “Thank you to the provincial government for providing this funding that will allow us to reallocate funding to other areas of need.”

“We are very pleased with the investment the Provincial Government is making in rural communities,” said Scott McFadden, Mayor of the Township of Cavan Monaghan. “Locally, these funds will enable us to move forward with strategies to strengthen our technology capabilities.” “We can upgrade outdated technology and processes thus mitigating risk, increase operation efficiency and enhance citizen service,” he added.

Municipalities will use the funding to find efficiencies and implement a wide range of initiatives to digitize, streamline and/or integrate programs and services with neighbouring communities. The funding will also help municipalities administer the cost saving measures in time for the 2022 municipal budget cycle.

“Today marks another milestone in our government’s commitment to supporting municipalities as they look for ways to improve service delivery in our communities,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “To put it simply, identifying and implementing modern solutions means money is diverted away from wasteful service delivery and stays in the pockets of local taxpayers.”

Ontario has committed up to $125 million over four years through the Municipal Modernization Program to help small and rural municipalities modernize services. Under Intake 1, the Province invested $11.8 million in 180 modernization projects and identified over $100 million in savings and efficiencies.

JUNE 29, 2021

Brock CHC’s New Home Closer to Construction

A much-needed new health care facility for Brock Township and surrounding area residents has now entered the final stages of development.

Brock Community Health Centre (Brock CHC) is pleased to announce that the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) has approved the Brock CHC Capital Project Stage 3.2 Submission, which included preliminary designs (architectural, mechanical, electrical), building elevations, cost estimate and more.

On receiving the official approval letter, Peter Elliott, Chair of the Brock CHC Building Committee, expressed gratification that the requirements of this detailed phase in the capital project had finally been achieved. “This is a very significant step in the building process. Our Board, staff and architect have worked diligently for over six years to receive this approval. The community will finally begin to see movement on the lot as we work toward construction of the new CHC facility”.

The announcement was made at Brock CHC’s Annual General Meeting on June 24, 2021. MPP Laurie Scott shared her enthusiasm with the members and staff in attendance. “This has been so important to the Brock Township community and area. We have gone through the years with patience and determination, and the reality is we will soon be able to walk through those doors that we have all championed for.”

In anticipation of Stage 3.2 approval, work on Stage 4.1 (involving working drawings, site plan approval, tender-ready construction cost estimate and general contractor pre-qualification) has been well underway and is almost ready for submission. This will be followed by the tender period, award and contract and construction of the new building. Work will begin on the lot as early as this summer with Elexicon Energy bringing services that fit the site plan requirements.

“We are very excited to see this project moving quickly now,” said Janet McPherson, Executive Director. “The community has shown tremendous support and patience over the years.”

The Ontario government announced approval for Brock Community Health Centre (Brock CHC) to design and construct a new health care facility in 2011. The new facility is scheduled to break ground in 2022.

Quick Facts:

  • Brock CHC receives funding from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and the Central East Local Health Integration Network.
  • The organization has a mandate to provide primary health care, diabetes education, health promotion and related health services to the residents of Brock Township and surrounding areas.
  • Brock CHC currently operates out of temporary rental accommodations.
  • The new centre will accommodate organizational programs and services, and will also provide a community health hub for Durham’s northern communities, increasing access to allied health care services and community organizations.

May 27, 2021

Ontario Invests in 21st Century Skills Development and Introduces Tuition-Free PSW Program in Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes

PETERBOROUGH – The Ontario government is transforming virtual learning across the province by supporting nearly 400 innovative projects at colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes. Locally, Trent University and Fleming College will receive over $2 million towards 11 innovative virtual learning projects to help provide students with more choice and access to high-quality postsecondary education and retraining opportunities.

“These exciting projects will help people develop in-demand skills by providing access to innovative educational technologies and better position them in the workforce,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

“People’s lives are busy; working full time and raising families. They don’t always have the time to enroll in part-time courses in person to sharpen their skills or knowledge,” MPP Dave Smith said. “In our rapidly changing economy, access to these online resources will support workers in their professional development and growth,” MPP Smith added.

The 11 projects are part of the province’s Virtual Learning Strategy announced last December and support key priority areas that include creating or adapting digital content, equipping faculty and students with skills and resources to teach and learn online and identifying educational technologies to support online courses and programs. Some of the programs include:

  • Fleming College, in collaboration with other educational institutions, is creating a series of eight micro-credential courses in the field of Virtual Reality. Working with subject matter experts, industry partners and employers, this micro-credential series will prepare learners with the high-demand skills and competencies employers are looking for in the industry.
  • Trent University is creating and developing a micro-credential course in nursing leadership to help nursing students prepare for a leadership role in the healthcare environment.

Trent University will receive $916,992 for their program development and Fleming College will receive $1,100,908 for a collective total of $2,017,830. This is part of the Ontario government’s investment of more than $70 million to implement Ontario’s Virtual Learning Strategy, including $21.4 million announced in the 2021 Ontario Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy.

“These projects will build on and advance the skills and capacity of students and faculty at Trent through multi-media channels, such as virtual lab sessions, career development, and knowledge communication skills,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, vice president of Research and Innovation at Trent. “The projects that are being led at Trent University contribute to the training of knowledgeable and highly qualified personnel that will in turn support post-pandemic economy recovery.”

“Ensuring that Ontario’s postsecondary institutions offer responsive and flexible digital courses and programs will help students build the skills and competencies they need to be competitive in today’s economy,” said Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “Our Virtual Learning Strategy is aimed at creating a platform that will allow all post-secondary institutions to compete in the new and necessary environment of learning from home.”

Last month, Fleming College started accepting applications for Ontario’s new accelerated training program for Personal Support Workers, this includes both Peterborough and Lindsay Fleming College campuses.

“Our historic plan to build a modern long-term care system, in which residents receive 4 hours of direct quality care per day, requires strategic investments; investments that guarantee results for the seniors that deserve it,” MPP Dave Smith said. “Years of neglect cannot be fixed overnight, but today’s announcement is another concrete series of steps in creating a system that puts care at its centre,” MPP Smith added.

“This tuition-free accelerated program is another example of how our government is working to build a 21st century long-term care system and train more people to deliver the care our seniors deserve,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.

“As many aspects of our lives and learning have transitioned to online over the past year, we have had to adapt quickly. The investment from the Ontario government will help Fleming dedicate more resources towards virtual learning to prepare for a future of hybrid delivery and provide more options for students,” said Fleming President Maureen Adamson. “Also, at a time when there’s a demand for personal support workers in our communities, Fleming is happy to contribute its expertise in health care training to offer the accelerated PSW program.”

The program is part of the Ontario government’s $115 million investment to train up to 8,200 new personal support workers; as part of the governments’ overall strategy to hire 27,000 new nurses, personal support workers and allied health professionals within the next few years.

The Accelerated PSW Training Program is a tuition-free opportunity for 6,000 new students and is expected to only take 6 months to complete, rather than the typical 8 months. After three months of coursework and experiential learning in a clinical setting, students will complete the final three months in paid onsite training in a long-term, home or community care setting.

The province is also offering tuition assistance to in-process PSW students who started the program at one of Ontario’s publicly-assisted colleges in January 2021. These students will be eligible to receive a $2,000 grant to help complete their studies, as well as a stipend to complete their clinical placement as part of their training.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Learn more about the new virtual micro-credential programs

Learn more about how to access the PSW programs

MAY 7, 2021

Ontario is Expanding Innovative Models to Deliver Better, Connected Care in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

The Ontario government is launching new 9-1-1 models of care to 33 municipalities across the province.

Currently, paramedics are required to bring 9-1-1 patients to hospital emergency departments, even when there are other appropriate care and treatment options available within the community.

A new model of care will be piloted in Central East Ontario including Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County and Durham Region to ensure paramedics have more options to provide safe and appropriate treatment for patients while helping to protect hospital capacity during COVID-19. The patient will remain in ultimate control of the care they receive and can at any time request to be taken to the emergency department.

RegionsModel TypeDescription of Pilot Project
Central East Ontario (Kawartha Lakes Paramedic Service; Region of Durham Paramedic Services; Haliburton County Paramedic Service; Northumberland Paramedics; Peterborough County/City Paramedics). Treat and Refer Model for Palliative Care Patients  Palliative care patients calling 9-1-1 will have the option to be treated on-scene for pain and symptom management, including pain or dyspnea, hallucinations or agitation, terminal congested breathing, and nausea or vomiting. Following treatment on-scene, patients have the option for paramedics to coordinate the patient’s follow-up care directly with the patient’s primary palliative care provider or with a local hospice for further treatment and wrap-around care.

Each pilot project will be in place for one year and evaluated to assess outcomes, identify where program adjustments may be needed, and how to implement new models of care throughout the province.

QUOTES:

“Under this pilot, paramedics can provide direct care to palliative patients and refer them to alternative health care destinations. This is another example of how our government is continuing to find solutions to challenges COVID-19 presents while helping to shape our health care model for the future.”

Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

“This is a unique program that will provide important additional care to residents in the community to help support palliative care patients and their families.”

Tim Waite, Chief/Director, Haliburton County Paramedic Service

“The Paramedic Services are pleased to have the opportunity to participate in the Treat and Refer Model for Palliative Care Patients pilot under the new 9-1-1 models of care. Many patients with life-limiting illnesses prefer to be cared for in their homes and communities. The ability to receive care in this setting has been associated with improved comfort of end stages of life for patients, families and caregivers. This patient-centered initiative will enhance the ability of paramedics, as part of a coordinated care team, to provide the option for patients receiving palliative care to have symptoms or changing care needs managed at the right place (in-home), the right time, and based on the needs of the individual.”

Randy Mellow, Chief of Paramedics, City of Kawartha Lakes

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen more than ever how critical it is for patients to receive timely and effective care – when and where they need it. As Ontario’s hospitals face unprecedented capacity pressures during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, these new models of care will enable our world-class paramedics to support our most vulnerable patients in the most appropriate setting, while avoiding unnecessary emergency department visits.”

Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health

QUICK FACTS:

  • Under the Treat and Refer model, specially trained paramedics treat palliative care patients on-site in their home, which can include administering medication for pain or dyspnea, hallucinations or agitation, terminal congested breathing, and nausea or vomiting. Once the patient has been treated, paramedics would directly coordinate follow-up care with a local hospice or the patient’s primary palliative care team to provide longer-term treatment options. This model is currently only available for palliative care patients in select regions.
  • Patient eligibility criteria varies from model-to-model. Paramedics responding to 9-1-1 calls for select palliative care patients will conduct an assessment on-scene for eligibility to participate in new models of care. If patients are not registered, paramedics would ask the patients on-scene if they would like to be registered with their local centres in order to be eligible for the next time they dial 9-1-1.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

MAY 6, 2021

Ontario Provides Funding for Public Schools in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock for the 2021-22 School Year

This week, the Ontario government announced new support for a safe and successful 2021-22 school year, including an additional $1.6 billion in resources to protect against COVID-19 and $561 million more in ongoing investments in public education for the 2021-22 school year through the Grants for Student Needs (GSN).

Total GSN funding is projected to be $25.6 billion and reflects the third straight year it has increased under the current government, and on a per-student basis is estimated to rise to $12,686, which is the highest amount ever.

Locally, the Ontario government will continue to support students in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock by providing millions in funding for COVID-19 preventative measures and funding through the Grants for Student Needs (GSN) program.

School Board2021-2022 Projected GSN Funding
Kawartha Pine Ridge DSB$416.9 million
Trillium Lakelands DSB$207.1 million
Durham DSB$826.1 million
Durham Catholic DSB$250.0 million
Peterborough V N C Catholic DSB$185.6 million

“Our government is committed to getting students back in the classroom as soon as it is safe to do so,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock. “These historic investments in public education are necessary to support our students and provide the resources needed to overcome the year of global disruption.”

“Our government is investing more in public education than any government in Ontario history,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. “As we continue to work with the Chief Medical Officer of Health to evaluate the safe resumption of in-class learning, our number-one priority remains safety in the classroom. To deliver on that priority, our government is making more than $1.6 billion available to protect school safety while investing in the long-term success of students with more support for reading, math, mental health, and special education needs.”

In order to support a safe return to classroom learning in September, Ontario is investing $1.6 billion in targeted COVID-19 resources that will be used for expenses such as enhanced cleaning protocols, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and critical supplies and equipment, and temporary staffing supports.

The Ontario government is supporting learning recovery and renewal by investing an additional $85.5 million to help students across the province address the effects of learning disruptions as a result of COVID-19. Investments will support reading and math for young learners, student re-engagement, and mental health and well-being supports. These learning recovery and renewal measures will include partnering with School Mental Health Ontario to support educators and enable timely interventions; additional teaching resources including math leads and coaches; and summer learning and special education supports, among other initiatives. These steps will position Ontario as a leading jurisdiction in unveiling a suite of learning recovery initiatives in advance of the next school year.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has made unprecedented investments to support student mental health, including over $80 million projected in 2021-22, which is more than four times the investments made in 2017-18. For the 2021-22 school year, Ontario will also be providing school boards with $3.2 billion to support students with special education needs through the GSN – the highest investment recorded in Ontario.

QUICK FACTS

  • COVID-19 resources will provide school boards with $1.6 billion for a wide range of supports, such as additional staffing to support remote learning and social distancing through smaller class sizes and support for remote learning technology, including improvements to connectivity within school buildings.
  • School boards have been instructed to not require parental decision on in-person or remote learning before June 1, 2021, at the earliest.
  • The 2021-22 COVID-19 supports do not include any federal government investments.
  • The Ministry of Education provides operating funding to Ontario’s 72 district school boards and 10 school authorities through the annual GSN education funding model. Funding to school boards is provided on a combination of per-student, per-school, and per-board basis.
  • In addition to Ontario’s annual investment of approximately $1.4 billion to support the repair and renewal of schools and $550 million for new schools, additions and major renovations, school boards will have access to $656 million in combined federal-provincial funding under the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
  • The government also allocated $100 million to school boards during the 2020-21 school year to support immediate measures to optimize air quality and ventilation in schools, which helped ensure over 95 per cent of school boards reported improvements this school year.

APRIL 29, 2021

Funding to Support Local Community Infrastructure Projects Across the Township of Cavan Monaghan and the Township of Brock

The Ontario government is continuing to invest in local community infrastructure projects across Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock through Community, Culture & Recreation stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

Joint provincial, federal and partner funding for eight projects across Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock will help deliver vital services for communities, foster greater social inclusion and improve the quality of life for residents with a combined total of over $12 million.

Three of the projects are located in the Township of Cavan Monaghan totaling a combined $1,571,250 in joint funding to support the renovation of the Millbrook Arena to a multipurpose community hub, renovating the Bruce Johnston Branch of the Cavan Monaghan libraries and the rehabilitation of the historically designated Old Millbrook School.

One of the projects is located in the Township of Brock totalling a combined $7,480,000 in joint funding to renovate and expand the Sunderland Memorial Arena & Community Centre.

Once complete, these projects will improve the quality and safety of recreation facilities in the community, while also creating more modern and accessible recreation options for residents and future visitors.

Quotes

“Community hubs like these are so important to people and families in our community. They provide recreational use and an opportunity to socialize with other residents. Our government will continue to support these important projects that help our communities grow and support economic development.”

Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

“It is wonderful to be a part of the investments today from both the Provincial and Federal government’s made into the riding of Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock.  They will create local jobs and provide economic activity. I would like to congratulate all successful applicants that received funding through the ICIP program.”

Jamie Schmale, MP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock

“On behalf of the residents of Brock Township we are very excited that our grant submission for the Sunderland Arena was selected.  We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Federal and Provincial Governments for this wonderful opportunity.  We also want to extend special thanks to the Sunderland Lions for their work and financial commitment to this project and we recognize the exceptional commitment and dedication of this amazing group to this project.  I know our late Mayor Debbie Bath Hadden was the key driving force behind this application and I know she would have been very pleased to see this happen.”

John Grant, Mayor of the Township of Brock

“Cavan Monaghan is a small but growing Township in close proximity to Highways 115 and the 407.  In recent years, we have been experiencing rapid growth as people are attracted to this community for the history, heritage and quality of life it offers.  With this increased growth also comes increased expectations for adequate recreational space and programming to serve a growing population.  Thanks to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), these funding commitments of the federal and provincial governments will allow Cavan Monaghan to protect the health and well-being of our local residents by preserving these long-standing cultural facilities.”

Scott McFadden, Mayor of the Township of Cavan Monaghan

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