London, ON – On Friday, local MPP Teresa Armstrong met with Thames Talbot Land Trust (TTLT) at their annual co-hosted Volunteer Appreciation event to hear more about the $134,200 Resilient Communities grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that is being used to build capacity for nature protection. The funding is supporting TTLT in protecting more nature and providing environmental programming in our local communities while also enhancing the wellbeing of staff and volunteers.
“This project is a remarkable step towards accelerating land conservation and community engagement with nature,” said Teresa Armstrong, MPP London—Fanshawe. “By investing in the capacity and growth of the organization, we are fostering a sustainable environment for future generations. I am delighted to see this investment from the Ontario Trillium Foundation in our community. Congratulations to the Thames Talbot Land Trust and their dedicated staff and volunteers.”
The aim of the project is to accelerate land conservation and community engagement with nature through investments in staff and volunteer capacity and growth of the organization. Funding was directed towards hiring a Volunteer Coordinator, extending seasonal staff contracts, providing staff training, purchasing outreach materials, and purchasing ergonomic furniture and necessary equipment to support staff and volunteers.
"Nature protection is more important now than ever. We have to protect nature at a faster rate and need to invest in people power to do so," said Daria Koscinski, TTLT's Executive Director. "This critical funding from OTF has allowed us to increase the number of staff and volunteers to protect, conserve, and restore nature in our local communities, with the wellbeing of everyone in mind. "
Thames Talbot Land Trust is a registered Canadian charity with a mission to protect, conserve, and restore nature within Elgin, Middlesex, Oxford and Perth counties, contributing to a stable climate, human wellbeing, and healthy habitats for all species. Our vision is to create a network of permanently protected areas that are rich in biodiversity, sustain life, and nourish a sense of wonder and inspiration for all people.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Thames Talbot Land Trust deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure they remain at the heart of the community for decades to come."
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
Organization Contact for Media Inquiries:
Daria Koscinski, Executive Director
Thames Talbot Land Trust
519-858-3442
[email protected]