City of Peterborough to Receive Over $10 Million Over Three Years Through the Housing Accelerator Fund

The City of Peterborough will receive $10,690,354 in funding over three years through the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF).

Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

It is a federal program run by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) to support building more housing in Peterborough.

“Housing is a critical need in our community. This funding will help Peterborough build the foundation for greater housing development in our community. I would like to thank the federal government and the CMHC for recognizing the urgency here in Peterborough,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

A City Council report in March will outline details about the initiatives and next steps.

The City’s HAF Action Plan aims to unlock housing development by providing direct incentives for constructing additional dwelling units, missing middle housing such as triplexes and fourplexes, and affordable housing and making systemic changes to municipal policies and procedures according to the City.

The following is the list of initiatives that make up the City’s Action Plan:

• Reduce or eliminate residential parking requirements;

• End exclusionary zoning and incentivize missing middle housing;

• Increase process efficiency by implementing a public-facing e-permitting portal;

• Implement a Community Planning Permit System;

• Make City-owned land available and foster partnerships to develop housing;

• Formalize processes and resources to support housing innovation and alternative construction methods; and,

• Modernizing the Affordable Housing Community Improvement Plan.

The HAF grant will cover the cost of implementing these initiatives. Most of these initiatives are scheduled to be completed or implemented this year.

The City has already received 25 per cent of the funding. The remaining installments will be paid out as the City hits key milestones in its goal to issue residential construction permits for 1,410 housing units within the next three years.

This funding follows a successful application by the City during the second round of funding announced by the CMHC.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Ontario Government Providing $6.2 In Funding For Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment Hub In Peterborough

The Ontario Government is providing support for those struggling with addiction and mental health issues in Peterborough by building a $6.2 million new Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub, announced at Showplace Performance on Monday.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

This new hub is part of the province’s plan to support safer communities by investing $529 million to create 27 HART Hubs across the province while also banning drug injection sites from operating within 200 metres of schools and licensed child-care centres.

“For the first time in Ontario’s history, we are taking a look at the entire continuum for homelessness, addictions, and recovery,” said Dave Smith, Member of Provincial Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha. “The Hart Hub is a fantastic approach; it means that we are crossing different sectors to ensure that we are providing the service where they need it, when they need it, and at the appropriate level. People can enter at any stage into the Hub, wherever they are, and then progress through. It is the first time that any province has looked at the entire continuum for homelessness, addiction, and rehab.”

Peterborough’s HART Hubs, similar to existing hub models in Ontario that have successfully provided people with care, will reflect regional priorities by connecting people with complex needs to comprehensive treatment and preventative services.

Planning efforts to create the HART Hub in Peterborough are underway and the proposed services to be offered could include:

• Primary and psychiatric care

• Mental health and addictions services including case management, Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM), withdrawal management, bed-based addiction treatment, and aftercare

• Peer recovery coaches

• Mental health and addictions supportive housing (transitional and permanent) and dual diagnosis supportive housing with 24/7 community wrap-around services

• Occupational therapy

• Vocational services

“The HART Hub investments are the right concept for the right time. Our community, like others, is struggling with high rates of homelessness, chronic mental illness, substance use and addictions and poverty. For people living this crisis, housing is the solution,” said Donna Rogers, Fourcast executive director. “The Peterborough HART Hub investment will offer housing alongside many of the other essential supports that can help people re-establish their lives through housing stability, addiction and mental health recovery and good health. Our community is ready to maximize this opportunity and build on the strong foundations of housing from homelessness that has been established amongst our community partners.”

The 18 new HART hub locations, including in Peterborough, were chosen due to a provincewide call for proposals last summer. All HART Hubs will have the goal of being operational by April 1. Earlier this year, the province announced that nine drug injection sites in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener, Guelph and Thunder Bay that are required to close due to being located within 200 metres of a school or licensed child-care centres have been approved for transition to a HART Hub. This brings the total number of HART Hubs across the province to 27, eight more than initially planned.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough DBIA Announce Information For Event Support Grant and Application Deadlines

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has released details for its 2025 Community Event Support Grant and application deadlines.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

This funding opportunity was developed to help financially support organizers who choose to host their community-minded events in the downtown core, which in turn helps create a lively, vibrant and active urban centre.

The DBIA states that this initiative aims to help foster an inclusive and thriving downtown community by encouraging diverse events that drive economic prosperity and increased foot traffic to the downtown core and also nurture the health of Peterborough’s social fabric by fostering an increase in community engagement.

The Peterborough DBIA will provide financial and in-kind support to selected events that align with their core strategic priorities. The number and extent of grants awarded will be determined by the availability of designated funds and the number of applications that fit the criteria. 

The DBIA event priorities are as follows:

• Reaching priority and diverse audiences

• Engaging the DBIA member businesses including restaurants, shops and services

• Bringing economic prosperity to the region, specifically within the BIA district 

• Encouraging tourism, downtown exploration and increased foot traffic to BIA member businesses 

• Building community connection to and within the downtown area

• Celebrating the unique cultures and identities of downtown Peterborough

The goal of the DBIA event states that its support grant is to empower event organizers to create and host events that encourage repeat visitation and year-round animation in the core by helping to offset costs such as advertising, administrative fees, supply costs, permit and rental fees, for example.

"Our goal is to provide support for event organizers who work to create memorable experiences in our downtown that not only bring economic benefits by increasing foot traffic to the businesses, but also strengthen our overall sense of community and connection,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “We look forward to collaborating with and supporting the visionaries and event planners who also work to create spaces where people feel connected. Together, we can showcase how special and important downtown Peterborough is for the social fabric and health of our community, and also for visitors who will want to choose this region as their destination of choice for enjoying a diverse set of unique and seasonal experiences.” 

Applicants who successfully meet the DBIA funding priorities can expect to receive support funds within two weeks of their scheduled event date. If the event requires in-kind support, organizers are asked to coordinate these requests with the DBIA at least two weeks before the event date. 

The event support grants will have two deadlines throughout the calendar year for application submissions:

• March 1: For events hosted from April 1 to Sept. 30

• Sept. 1: For events hosted from Oct. 1 to March 31, 2026

After a submission, the DBIA board will review all applications for the March 1 or Sept. 1 deadlines and decide on funding allocations in the board meeting that directly follows the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for funding. All applications must provide the DBIA with a detailed budget outline for their event to be considered.

The event application form can be found at ptbodbia.ca or online.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Ontario Government Invests $2.9 Million Into PRHC For Expansive Mental Health and Addiction Care Services

The Ontario Government is investing $2.9 million into the PHRC to expand the mental health crisis unit for faster and easier connections to high-quality, comprehensive mental health and addiction care services, announced at Showplace Performance Centre on Monday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan bui.

“This investment to enhance the PRHC Crisis Response Unit showcases our government's commitment to addressing mental health challenges,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. It will significantly impact the lives of patients and their families in Peterborough and nearby regions, allowing our healthcare professionals to maintain exceptional care for those in need.”

The expansion is meant to ensure that the hospital is better equipped to deliver responsive and comprehensive care to those in crisis according to Dr. Lynn Mikula, PRHC president and CEO.

“The addition of a purpose-built, expanded Crisis Response Unit at PRHC will have a profound impact on the lives of thousands of patients, improving care and alleviating overcrowding in our Emergency Department, which sees 80,000 visits a year,” she said. “The need for mental health crisis services in our region has grown substantially over the last decade, and we look forward to launching into the next phase of this project, which will ensure that our Mental Health Crisis Response Unit is equipped to provide the best possible care and support in the years and decades to come.”

Once opened, the expanded mental health crisis unit will include:

• Additional capacity to address high volumes of acute mental health and substance abuse incidents

• New crisis unit beds

• Separation for adult and youth mental health patients to enhance the delivery of care, so they can receive the appropriate and high-quality care in a safe space

The ministry says they are working with PRHC to complete early planning and design for this project. A construction schedule will be confirmed once further planning is complete and the project is tendered and awarded.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Central Smith Creamery Receives Grant Up to $200,000 In Government's Effort to Strengthen Dairy Sector

In an effort to bolster the dairy sector in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, Selwyn’s Central Smith Creamery has received a grant of up to $200,000 from the provincial and federal governments.

(left to right) Jillian Scates, project manager and co-owners Ian and Jennifer Scates are part of three generations who have been involved with Central Smith Creamery. The Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs designed and delivered by provinces and territories. Photo by David Tuan Bui

The funding is used to purchase various technologies including an ultraviolet liquid storage tank, volume and temperature control systems, a fat tester system, liquefier load cells, an upgraded raw material management system and a robotic conveyor system.

The grants aims to enhance product quality and boost processing efficiency through the Dairy Processors Modernization Initiative, which offers cost-shared funding to dairy processors for improving efficiency, capacity, and food safety by adopting modern milk processing methods according to Dave Smith, Peterborough Kawartha MPP.

“Central Smith Creamery plays a vital role in our community by providing job opportunities and backing local initiatives. It's wonderful to witness their ability to enhance production capabilities through this project,” he explained. “Central Smith is establishing a standard of excellence within the industry. This upgrade is anticipated to boost efficiency and allow the company to satisfy increasing demand while upholding the high quality that customers have come to cherish.”

The Dairy Processing Modernization Initiative still accepts applications from cow, goat, sheep and water buffalo milk processors until the program is fully subscribed. The initiative provides up to $200,000 in cost-shared funding to each successful applicant to help dairy processing businesses increase production efficiency and food safety in their facilities. Funding can help cover the cost of new or refurbished equipment, training and more. The governments of Ontario and Canada are investing up to $8 million in the initiative through the Sustainable Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to receive this grant, as it will enable us to elevate the level of support we offer to our customers across the country. The backing from the Ontario Government is incredibly valuable, and we sincerely appreciate it,” said Ian and Jennifer Scates, Central Smith Creamery co-owners.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

OLG Issues Third-Quarter Gaming Revenue Payment to Peterborough of $664,043

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has made their third quarter payment totalling $664,043 to the City of Peterborough for hosting Shorelines Casino Peterborough announced on Friday morning.

Since 1994, host communities have received more than $2.2 billion in non-tax gaming revenue. File Photo.

The quarter was from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31.

During OLG’s fiscal year (April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2025), Peterborough has received $2,130,706. Since the gaming site opened in October 2018, Peterborough has amassed $14,508,090 according to a press release.

These payments to host communities are based on a formula consistently applied across all gaming sites in Ontario using a graduated scale of gaming revenue at the hosted site as stated in a press release. 

“OLG’s Municipality Contribution Agreement payments help pave the way for Peterborough to build critical infrastructure and fund important programs that make a real difference for residents,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Shorelines Casino Peterborough supports numerous jobs and generates a great deal of economic activity that, in turn, improves the well-being of our local community.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

$100,000 Available For Projects Supporting Economic Growth Through Community Futures Peterborough's Advancement Program

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) is doubling the funding to $100,000 through its Community Advancement Program (CAP) for projects supporting economic growth, announced at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on Tuesday morning.

Girard addresses the public on CFP’s 40th anniversary at the Art Gallery of Peterborough with several dignitaries in attendance. Photo courtesy of Community Futures Peterborough.

The money came from the federal government through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The CAP will distribute an astonishing $100,000 to our region's not-for-profits, charities, municipalities and First Nation communities, a doubling from when it was first launched last year.

“Our organization is committed to advancing our local economy forward and is thrilled to be able to distribute $100,000 back into our community this year,” said Devon Girard, CFP executive director. “We fully understand and recognize the impact these dollars can make to create real change.”

The extra funding is part of CFP’s 40th anniversary where the City recognized the organization’s milestone.

“Building on a successful first year, the Community Advancement Program now offers even more support for businesses, non-profits and other eligible organizations to invest in the Peterborough region,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

“Providing stability, building trust, and fostering a strong reputation in our region are all at the core of what we do at Community Futures Peterborough,” said Wayne Harding, CPF board of directors chair. “It's about giving back and demonstrating unwavering commitment to our community.”

The Community Advancement Program will provide 10 chosen applicants with non-repayable funding of $10,000 for their project.

Applications for the CAP program and full program guidelines are available on the Community Futures Peterborough website. The deadline to apply is March 7. All applicants will be notified by April 1 of the result of their application.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Applications For 2025 Community Grants Now Open

The City of Peterborough’s Community Grants Program application process for 2025 is now open.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Any not-for-profit group or association in the City that would like to be considered is invited to complete an online application for a Community Project Grant or a Community Investment Grant.

The Community Grants program provides financial assistance to non-profit, community-based organizations that provide direct programs, services, or activities that enhance the quality of life for Peterborough residents in social services and health, arts, culture, heritage, recreation or the environment. 

Applications will be open for the following Community Grants streams:

• Community Project Grants – support for a specified project for which the requested amount is $250 to $1,000.

• Community Investment Grants – support for projects and special events, specific programs or operating budgets for which the requested amount is $1,000 to $15,000.

The Community Project Grant or Community Investment Grant applications deadline is Jan. 29 at noon.

Funding for the Community Grants program is contingent on the City Council’s anticipated budget approval on Feb. 3. All applications will be subject to an evaluation process and final approval by Council. The Community Grants Program is competitive and funding is limited and not guaranteed. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Showplace Showcases Results From $66,000 Grant By Ontario Government For Post-Pandemic Impact

Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith saw the work of a $66,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for the Showplace Performance Centre to develop a new strategic plan for moving forward past the impacts created by the pandemic, on Thursday.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“This funding from the Provincial Government, through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, has played a crucial role in the strategic planning of Showplace Peterborough,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “This Performance Centre is a cornerstone of our community, providing arts, culture, and live entertainment for individuals of all ages.”

The 18-month grant has allowed Showplace to bring in outside expertise to develop the plan and help with the costs of hosting focus meetings and helping with promotion and administrative costs.

Ken Doherty, past board chair, presented the plan to an audience, unveiling a new vision, mission and values to carry Showplace into its next era as Peterborough’s premier destination for arts, culture and live entertainment.

“The Ontario Trillium Foundation knows that Showplace helps local artists thrive. Our new strategic plan, with concrete actions and measurable results, will see Showplace grow to be an even more vibrant part of our community,” said Doherty. “As we look to the future, partners like Trillium will help us engage new audiences and hold our spot as Peterborough’s premier choice for live entertainment.”

The full plan can be viewed below:

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Volunteer Peterborough Receives $12,000 Grant From The Commonwell’s L.E.A.F. Program

To help bolster local volunteering efforts, Volunteer Peterborough has received a $12,000 grant from the Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group’s Learning Engagement & Accelerator Fund (L.E.A.F.), announced on Monday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Volunteerism faces a number of barriers, including general awareness. This program will help to match interested volunteers to opportunities in our community,” says Lois Tuffin, Volunteer Peterborough founder. “By matching the right people and skills to roles we can help build confidence and independence for prospective volunteers while creating lasting benefits for organizations who rely on volunteer support.”

Administered by The Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group, the L.E.A.F. program invested $400,000 in grants this year, scaling from previous years.

“We received more than $3.7 million in funding requests this year, highlighting its crucial role in supporting communities,” said Tim Shauf, The Commonwell president. “Our L.E.A.F grants are about caring beyond us and beyond now.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.