Muskoka Community Grant Program
The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting community-funded programs. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address the needs of our most vulnerable. Two grant opportunities are available:
Pay It Forward (PIF)
- Available since 2012, PIF provides grants of up to $2,500.
- Open to community members or grassroots groups.
- Supports projects that bring people together, fill a community need and create positive change.
Community Enhancement Fund (CE)
- Available since 2020, CE provides grants of up to $10,000.
- Open to non-profit community organizations and registered charities.
- Funds initiatives that address poverty reduction, food security, housing, education and training opportunities, volunteer and job development, and community engagement.
The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting community-funded programs. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address the needs of our most vulnerable. Two grant opportunities are available:
Pay It Forward (PIF)
- Available since 2012, PIF provides grants of up to $2,500.
- Open to community members or grassroots groups.
- Supports projects that bring people together, fill a community need and create positive change.
Community Enhancement Fund (CE)
- Available since 2020, CE provides grants of up to $10,000.
- Open to non-profit community organizations and registered charities.
- Funds initiatives that address poverty reduction, food security, housing, education and training opportunities, volunteer and job development, and community engagement.
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2021 Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced!
Share 2021 Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Facebook Share 2021 Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Twitter Share 2021 Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Linkedin Email 2021 Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! linkWe are excited to share the list of successful grant applicants and projects through the Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward!
Successful applicants and projects can be viewed in the table below.
Another big shout out to all of the 2021 community grant applicants! Our grant review committee was thrilled to see the resiliency of individuals and groups such as yourself, who, despite current challenges related to COVID-19, can pull together to innovate and support our most vulnerable populations during this time.
Thank you for all that you do!
Recipients through the Pay It Forward Grant Program:
Recipient Project Description Grant Funding Muskoka Indigenous Friendship Community Providing program supplies to support the local Indigenous groups in culture and community building activities. $2,500 Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums Providing instruments for the band, which provides free music lessons, supports the local long-term care homes, as well as the Legion. $2,500 Klahanie Community Gardens Providing new tools the Community Garden, which is a community building and food security effort. $1,115 Free Stuff for Daily Needs Providing essential items to people in need throughout Muskoka. $2,500 Recipients through the Community Enhancement Grant Program:
Recipient
Project Description
Grant Funding Muskoka Shoebox Project Providing essential items for women and non-binary people in need during the holiday season. $2,500 Ryde Community
Co-operativeA community lunch project will involve preparing and sharing a healthy community meal for people facing food insecurity. $1,600 Muskoka North Good Food Co-operative Providing food literacy workshops including topics such as food rescue, kitchen skills, gardening, and sustenance. $9,000 Muskoka Pride Community For the purchase of six rainbow pride benches to be placed in each Town and Township within the District. $10,000 Knox Presbyterian Church Bracebridge A community garden project to provide food and community building in the neighbourhood. Funding will also support the ongoing food box program that provides food to people facing food insecurity. $10,000 Ryde Community Co-operative Free drive-by family events for neighbours. Families pick up an "event goody bag" monthly. Provides entertainment and community building in an area with few options for families. $2,500 Alzheimer's Society of Muskoka Providing a "Dementia Friendly Community Education Training" program to organizations and businesses across the District of Muskoka to enhance inclusion and support of people living with dementia across the District. $6,200 Community YWCA of Muskoka Providing support for the "Circles" program in the Town of Gravenhurst, which is a follow-up to the "Getting Ahead" program. This program provides wrap-around support with the goal of moving individuals out of poverty. $5,550 Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere The "Growing Together" program engages individuals in preparing vegetable planters through a series of workshops. Growing together will continue to encourage the community to think about growing more of its own food and support people who want to start gardening. $4,120 Big Brothers Big Sisters Muskoka Providing a "Matches out in Muskoka" program that will allow Big Brothers/Sisters to take their mentees out to explore our local attractions and businesses. $3,800 Enliven Cancer Care, Muskoka Providing a mindfulness based stress-reduction program, as well as yoga classes to people impacted by cancer. $10,000 Gravenhurst Against Poverty Providing slow-cookers to people living with poverty and cooking classes with a trained chef about how to use them to increase food security. $2,030 Hospice Muskoka
(Andy's House)Supporting Hospice Muskoka to provide a complex grief counselling program. $5,000 Lake Country Legal Clinic Creating a renters support and advocacy resource for people experiencing eviction or housing insecurity. $5,000 Gravenhurst Against Poverty To support with volunteer training and tracking for Gravenhurst Against Poverty's expanding organization. $7,000 Community Living Huntsville Providing support for the "Pathways" program, which helps young adults and youth with developmental support needs develop skills and build connections in the community. $2,000 -
2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications Now Being Accepted for Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund
Share 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications Now Being Accepted for Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund on Facebook Share 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications Now Being Accepted for Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund on Twitter Share 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications Now Being Accepted for Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund on Linkedin Email 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications Now Being Accepted for Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund linkCLOSED: This discussion has concluded.The PIF Community Investment Grant Program has been available to Grassroots Muskoka Community Groups since 2012 and offers grants of up to $2,500. Grants are awarded to projects that fill a strategic need in the community, enhance community support and leadership, and create positive change.
The CE Fund is available to Non-Profit Community Organizations. The program will offer grants up to $10,000. Grants will be awarded to groups that address poverty reduction; food security; housing and living conditions; education and training opportunities; volunteer and job development; and citizen engagement.
Submit an Application for Funding
The Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Fund application is now available at the following link: 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Application
The application will remain open until October 27, 2021, and will close at 4:00 p.m.
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2021 SSRF 3.0 Recipients Announced!
Share 2021 SSRF 3.0 Recipients Announced! on Facebook Share 2021 SSRF 3.0 Recipients Announced! on Twitter Share 2021 SSRF 3.0 Recipients Announced! on Linkedin Email 2021 SSRF 3.0 Recipients Announced! linkThank you to all 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program Social Service Relief Fund (SSRF) 3.0 applicants.
The SSRF is a direct result of COVID-19 and is supported by the Province of Ontario through the District’s Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative (CHPI) program. Through grants of up to $10,000 this fund intends to provide financial assistance to Muskoka community groups that offer essential services such as food and shelter programs or other necessary programs to help vulnerable populations during COVID-19.
We are pleased to share our list of successful SSRF recipients below. Please stay tuned to this page for other grant opportunities made available through the 2021 Muskoka Community Grant Program!
Agency/Recipient
Food Security
Other Supports
Social Isolation
Technology Programs
PPE or Cleaning
Transportation
Funding Amount
Alzheimer Society of Muskoka
X
$8,000
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muskoka
X
$8,000
Bracebridge Out of the Cold
X
$7,500
Children's Foundation of Muskoka
X
$10,000
Canadian Mental Health Association Muskoka-Parry Sound
X
X
X
$10,000
Community Living Huntsville
X
$10,000
District of Muskoka – Children’s Programs
X
$10,000
District of Muskoka – EarlyON Programs
X
X
$5,000
District of Muskoka – Seniors Programs
X
X
$5,000
Dorset Community Partnership Fund
X
X
$5,000
Elder Abuse Prevention Muskoka
X
$10,000
Enliven Cancer Care Muskoka
X
$10,000
Feed it Forward - Food Rescue South Muskoka
X
$10,000
Financial Assistance Partners Group - Muskoka
X
X
$10,000
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs - Gravenhurst
X
X
$10,000
Gravenhurst Against Poverty - Food Security
X
$10,000
Gravenhurst Against Poverty - Transportation Program
X
$10,000
Gravenhurst Women's Centre
X
X
$6,700
Hospice Muskoka
X
$10,000
Huntsville Meals on Wheels
X
X
$6,500
MiND-Aid - Muskoka
X
$10,000
Muskoka Family Works - Huntsville
X
X
$5,000
Muskoka Seniors - Huntsville
X
X
$10,000
Muskoka Shoebox Project for Women
X
X
$2,500
Muskoka Women's Advocacy Group
X
X
$10,000
Pets Too, Moosonee Puppy Rescue
X
$10,000
Port Severn Food Bank
X
$10,000
Rotary Club of Bracebridge
X
$5,000
Ryde Community Co-op
X
X
$10,000
Salvation Army (Bracebridge / Gravenhurst)
X
$10,000
Salvation Army (Huntsville) - Fresh Foods / Perishables
X
$10,000
Salvation Army (Huntsville) - Non-perishable Food
X
$10,000
Wahta Mohawks First Nation
X
X
$5,000
Youth Unlimited (The Door Youth Centre)
X
$10,000
YWCA - Muskoka
X
X
$10,000
Total SSRF3 Funding
$299,200
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2021 Community Grant Program Kick Off – Applications for SSRF Now Being Accepted!
Share 2021 Community Grant Program Kick Off – Applications for SSRF Now Being Accepted! on Facebook Share 2021 Community Grant Program Kick Off – Applications for SSRF Now Being Accepted! on Twitter Share 2021 Community Grant Program Kick Off – Applications for SSRF Now Being Accepted! on Linkedin Email 2021 Community Grant Program Kick Off – Applications for SSRF Now Being Accepted! linkCLOSED: This application is now closed.The 2021 Community Grant Program is kicking off with the release of third-wave funding made available through the Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF). The SSRF is a direct result of COVID-19 and is supported by the Province of Ontario through the District’s Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative (CHPI). Through grants of up to $10,000 this fund intends to provide financial assistance to Muskoka community groups that offer essential services such as food and shelter programs or other necessary programs to help vulnerable populations during COVID-19.
Submit an Application for Funding
The SSRF application is now available at the following link: https://www.engagemuskoka.ca/muskoka-community-grants/survey_tools/ssrf-application-may-2021
The application will remain open until May 25, 2021, and will close at 4:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirements are provided at the top of this page and directly within the application.
For questions regarding this application, please contact Sandra Daleman, Manager of Homelessness Programs and Services via email at Sandra.Daleman@muskoka.on.ca
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Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced!
Share Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Facebook Share Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Twitter Share Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! on Linkedin Email Community Enhancement Fund and Pay It Forward Grant Recipients Announced! linkWe are excited to share the list of successful grant applicants and projects through the Pay It Forward extension period and the Community Enhancement Fund!
Successful applicants and projects can be viewed in the table below.
Another big shout out to all of the 2020 community grant applicants! Our grant review committee was thrilled to see the resiliency of individuals and groups such as yourself, who despite current challenges related to COVID-19, can pull together to innovate and support our most vulnerable populations during this time.
Thank you for all that you do!
Recipients through the Pay It Forward Grant Program:
Applicant
Program Description
Grant Amount
Muskoka Lakes Public Library
A new outdoor-safe social gathering opportunity for Muskoka Lakes Seniors to connect and engage during COVID-19.
$2,500.00
Shoebox Project
The annual Shoebox Project is a small, simple gesture of kindness that has an immediate, positive impact on the women that receive it. Due to COVID-19, the Shoebox Project will be a virtual campaign. Donations will go towards purchasing gift cards and essentials for women in Muskoka. https://www.shoeboxproject.com/muskoka.html
$2,500.00
Previously announced PIF recipients:
Serenity's Haven
A chance for mothers whose children have been sexually abused to care for one another and share resources and encouragement in a regular, peer support gathering.
$890.00
Archer's In Muskoka
Volunteers bringing affordable/free alternate recreation opportunities to Muskoka students with indoor and outdoor archery training and skill development.
$1,125.00
Recipients in the Community Enhancement Fund:Applicant
Program Description
Grant Amount
Christine's Place
Developing supported online programming, including hardware loan options, to increase access for rural, home-bound and transportation-challenged families.
$5,839.00
Community Living Huntsville
The Pathways program facilitates community connection and personal development among isolated individuals living with a developmental disability.
$3,400.00
Enliven
Enhancing support/service delivery to vulnerable and isolated people impacted by cancer through the provision of Chromebooks, internet access and technical support to tap into a wide variety of local discussions and cancer supports.
$5,500.00
Huntsville Theatre Company
Providing an open and welcoming space for anyone to develop and pursue avenues for creative expression and get advice and guidance on artistic endeavours.
$10,000.00
Muskoka Eco Club The Green Team
Engaging and informative programming to encourage smart waste handling practices in our community, and provide options for large scale diversion of compostable and recyclable materials, all driven by volunteers.
$8,522.00
YWCA of Muskoka
Increasing visibility and accessibility of the YWCA programming, and enabling after-school development opportunities for young women in Bracebridge in a safe, welcoming space.
$10,000.00
Muskoka North Good Food Co-op
Co-op members and volunteers preparing fresh, local food boxes and launching community meals to support and engage families in need during C-19.
$5,000.00
Elder Abuse Prevention
Providing digital access for seniors in the form of tablets, technology training and increased free community internet opportunities in Muskoka, with strong partner and volunteer support.
$5,000.00
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2020 Community Grant Recipients Announced!
Share 2020 Community Grant Recipients Announced! on Facebook Share 2020 Community Grant Recipients Announced! on Twitter Share 2020 Community Grant Recipients Announced! on Linkedin Email 2020 Community Grant Recipients Announced! linkCLOSED: This discussion has concluded.August 12, 2020 - 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Recipients Announced!
Thank you to all 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Applicants. We are encouraged to see leaders in our community working together to broaden community engagement in the face of the unique and evolving challenges posed by COVID-19.
We are excited to share our list of successful applicants and projects under the Pay it Forward Grant Program and Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF). Successful applicants in the Community Enhancement (CE) fund are expected to be announced next month.
We are also pleased to share that the Pay it Forward 2020 Grant Program has been extended and we are continuing to accept applications! If you are a Grassroots Community Group looking to fill a strategic need in the community, enhance volunteerism, community support and leadership, and create positive change, complete an application today!
Don’t forget to subscribe to this page to stay informed of project updates and future CE fund recipients! Look for the big megaphone on this page, enter your email address and hit subscribe!
Successful Applicants and Projects - Social Services Relief Fund (SSRF):
Applicant
Program Description
Grant Amount
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs
Sourcing free/low cost essential daily living items from across the District and beyond and distributing them to vulnerable Muskoka residents via delivery and pickup from their Gravenhurst location.
$5,000
Bracebridge Out of the Cold
Preparing and sharing nutritious meals and opportunities for empowerment, engagement and capacity building with families and individuals in need.
$5,000
Bracebridge United Church
Offering timely financial assistance and essential care items for families in need during C-19.
$5,000
Dorset Community Partnership Fund
Increasing ability to respond to COVID needs by purchasing more PPE, medical supplies, pharmacy/emergency drug supplies for those in need along with food support.
$5,000
Elder Abuse Prevention Muskoka
Providing digital access for seniors in the form of tablets, technology training and increased free community internet opportunities in Muskoka, with strong partner and volunteer support.
$5,000
Muskoka North Good Food Co-operative Inc.
Co-op members and volunteers preparing fresh, local food boxes and launching community meals to support and engage families in need during C-19.
$5,000
Muskoka Seniors Home Assistance
Offering a mobile, outdoor gathering opportunity for Muskoka Seniors clients/volunteers to stay connected and engaged while sharing a meal/snacks in the midst of C-19.
$2,950
The Salvation Army Bracebridge Community Church
Serving Bracebridge
Serving Gravenhurst
Filling the gap generated by C-19 as they provide families in need with a Christmas hamper containing staple food items, a Christmas meal, and children's toys.
$5,000$5,000
The Salvation Army Huntsville Food Bank & Family Services
Purchasing groceries to support individuals and families with essential food items during C-19.
$5,000
Successful Applicants and Projects - Pay it Forward:Applicant
Program Description
Grant Amount
Archers In Muskoka
Volunteers bringing affordable/free alternate recreation opportunities to Muskoka students with indoor and outdoor archery training and skill development.
$1,125
Serenity’s Haven
A chance for mothers whose children have been sexually abused to care for one another and share resources and encouragement in a regular, peer support gathering.
$890
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2020 Muskoka Community Grant Updates
Share 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Updates on Facebook Share 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Updates on Twitter Share 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Updates on Linkedin Email 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Updates linkCLOSED: This discussion has concluded.July 27, 2020 - 2020 Muskoka Community Grant Applications Under Review!
Just a quick update to let you know that grant applications are still under review by our grant committee.
Successful applicants in the Pay it Forward Program and the Social Service Relief Fund are expected to be announced within the next two weeks! Applicants successful in the Community Enhancement Fund are expected to follow late September.
Once we’ve contacted all successful applicants we will post the list of 2020 successful applicants and projects to this page.
Would you like to be notified when successful applicants are posted?
Subscribe to this page to receive future grant announcements and updates via email!To subscribe, enter your email address in the subscribe tool (which can be found under the megaphone on the top right hand corner of the screen on your desktop computer, or scroll down on your mobile device):
Thanks and stay tuned!
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Key Dates
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February 18 2025
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March 21 2025
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June 2025
Who's Listening
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Coordinator
MCPhone 705-645-2412 Email communitygrants@muskoka.on.ca