THORNHILL — The Ontario government, through the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), is investing $194,500 into Chabad Lubavitch of Southern Ontario to help modernize and upgrade its longstanding community pool and cabana facility. The grant is one of three awarded in Thornhill this year under OTF’s Capital grant stream.
The funding will go toward replacing aging components with durable, commercial-grade materials—extending the life and reliability of a facility that has served local residents for nearly four decades.
“Chabad Lubavitch of Southern Ontario has long enriched the lives of families in Thornhill and continues to play an important role in building and strengthening our shared cultural and spiritual life in Ontario,” said Thornhill MPP Laura Smith. “That’s why our government is proud to support them with a $194,500 Capital grant.”
Originally built 38 years ago with support from a Wintario grant, the community’s aquatic centre has recently faced challenges due to its aging infrastructure. The new funding comes as a welcome relief.
“Our community Pool & Cabana has been on life support for the last few years,” said Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum, Director of Chabad Lubavitch of Southern Ontario. “The OTF grant will allow us to retrofit the facility and maximize the swimming schedule without interruption due to malfunction. It is a most timely gift for hundreds of patrons who enjoy the pool all summer long.”
The OTF Capital grant stream supports non-profit organizations in acquiring equipment, completing repairs or retrofits, and building or enhancing infrastructure. Province-wide, over $28 million in OTF Capital grants is being distributed this year to support 300 local initiatives that help Ontarians connect, stay active, and thrive.
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming Stan Cho emphasized the broader impact of the investment. “Now more than ever, it is crucial we support homegrown experiences that build stronger communities, strengthen local economies, and celebrate our collective identity,” said Cho. “This funding will help ensure facilities and spaces are accessible, modern and central to communities across our province.”
The improvements to the Chabad pool and cabana are expected to benefit Thornhill residents of all ages, ensuring uninterrupted summer recreation and reinforcing the centre’s place as a hub for community life.
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