(Sudbury, ON) – On Friday, MPP Jamie West met with the team at Rainbow Routes Association (RRA) to hear how a $48,400 Resilient Communities Fund grant awarded in 2022 by the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) was used to create and support new programs on the trails. The project was launched in August 2023 and has provided increased access to programs throughout the Rainbow Routes trail network.
“The Rainbow Routes Association plays a vital role in Sudbury’s connection to nature and health. I was pleased to see that this grant allowed them to expand their programming to include new partnerships in the community. Congratulations to the entire team, continue the excellent work!” said Sudbury MPP Jamie West.
The Inclusive Trail Trekkers initiative was partnered with L’Arche Sudbury, allowing for accessible focused hikes. And RRA’s English Conversations on the Trails was accomplished with a partnership with Greater Sudbury Public Library, which welcomed newcomers, international students and those who do not speak English as their first language to enjoy an easy learning experience while hiking our trails.
In addition to the increased programming support, funding was provided to update RRA’s organization to stay resilient through the increased demand for use of trails in the City of Greater Sudbury since the end of the pandemic. Thanks to the 18-month long grant, people with varying language skills and of all abilities will be able to enjoy more programming lead by Rainbow Routes Volunteers.
“Non-profit organization across Ontario, like the Rainbow Routes Association, deliver exciting programming that makes a difference – helping residents and newcomers to Sudbury connect, learn new tings and enjoy the great outdoors,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “That’s why the grant support that my ministry is providing is so important. Our government wants to ensure that these spaces, trails and programs remain the heart of communities across our province.”
RRA is committed to preserving the Trans Canada Trail and our routes to nature for our community. If you wish to enquire about volunteering your time with Rainbow Routes to support hikes, trail blazing and special events, please visit the website at: www.rainbowroutes.com
The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) mission is to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario. As an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations, last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.