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The Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes is celebrating the first year of its Social Sustainability Fund (SSF), which awarded $56,000 to nine community-led initiatives aimed at promoting well-being, equity, and belonging across the region.
Launched in 2025 with seed funding from the City of Kawartha Lakes Human Services Department, the fund received 18 applications totaling over $160,000, highlighting strong demand for locally driven solutions. Supported projects address mental health, youth engagement, food access, newcomer inclusion, digital literacy, and child development.
“It’s inspiring to see how this fund empowers local organizations to make a real difference,” said Laurie Dillon-Schalk, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes. Cheryl Faber, Director of Human Services for the City, added, “When you think of how far $56,000 can go and the impact it will have, it’s truly rewarding.”
Among the recipients were Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes, John Howard Society of the Kawarthas, A Place Called Home, Pinnguaq Foundation, New Canadians Centre Peterborough, Coboconk & Area Food Bank, Chimo Youth & Family Services, Fenelon Falls Salvation Army Community and Family Services, and Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Foundation.
The Foundation plans to expand the fund in 2026, increasing available funding and opening eligibility to both registered charities and nonprofit organizations.
More information is available at kawarthafoundation.ca.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
