Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club Increasing Accessibility Through Ontario Trillium Grant

Thanks to last year’s $15,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant, the Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club increased the accessibility of its programs by purchasing a Kalandor Canoe to offer small-crew training for dragon boating.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

“The Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club remains committed to making this sport accessible for everyone. Thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant from the Ontario government, they've made significant strides in ensuring physically diverse individuals can fully participate in canoe and kayak programs,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “This is a prime example of how targeted provincial funding can empower local organizations to truly make a difference in people's lives and foster a more active and connected community.”

The purchase enables the Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club to offer paddling and racing opportunities to individuals who may not otherwise have the chance to enjoy the sport. Funds from the grant enabled the Club to purchase three new boats, a canopy and several life vests according to Peg Smith of Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club.

“We are grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for helping us invest in accessible boats and equipment to meet this objective,” she said. “Our expanded fleet of canoes and kayaks and mini dragon boat will ensure safety, comfort, and independence for all of our paddlers. Specifically, we have increased programming and racing opportunities for our Special Olympians, and we are better able to welcome seniors, and others with mobility concerns to the sport. We are excited to be expanding Peterborough’s paddling community, in this way.”

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