The County Foundation - Prince Edward County - NewsThe County Foundation - Prince Edward County - Newshttps://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-eventsMon, 11 May 2026 12:43:28 -0400http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Municipal Financial Relief Program Relaunches for 2026]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/mfrg-program-relaunchThe Municipal Financial Relief Program has relaunched for this year, and has been updated to reflect  a new set of guidelines .  After four yea ]]>

The Municipal Financial Relief Program Relaunches for 2026

The Municipal Financial Relief Program has relaunched for this year, and has been updated to reflect a new set of guidelines. After four years of operation, there was interest in reviewing the program and eligibility structure in order to re-affirm the intention of the program (to help low-income residents manage the rising costs of municipal taxes and water rates), improve the equity of access for residents, and continue to support those who are already eligible. 

Apply to the Municipal Financial Relief Program

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on 2026 Program Updates

Here are some questions you may have about the program updates.

We reviewed the program to make sure it still does what it was meant to do. The program was created to help people with low incomes pay rising municipal tax and water bills. After four years, municipal staff saw that: 

  • Fewer people applied in 2025 than expected 

  • Some people with real financial need could not qualify under the old rules 

  • Other communities were doing things a bit differently 


The review helped check what was working well and what could be fairer or clearer for residents. 

The County did not make changes quickly or in isolation. Staff: 

  • Reviewed why and how the program was first created 

  • Looked at program data from 2022 to 2025 

  • Compared the program to similar programs in other places 

  • Worked closely with community partners who support residents living on low incomes 

  • Tested different options to make sure changes would still fit the approved budget 


The goal was to improve the program without taking support away from people who already rely on it. 

The old income rules were too simple and did not always feel fair. 

Under the old rules: 

  • Bigger households were treated the same as smaller ones 

  • A family with children could be excluded even if money was tight 

  • Only people earning under $20,000 could get the highest help, no matter how many people lived in the home 


The new income scales: 

  • Adjust for household size 

  • Match well-known federal and provincial low-income measures 

  • Make sure people with similar financial pressure are treated more equally 


This helps the program reach the people who need it most. 

Not all households face the same level of financial pressure. 

Having two levels lets the program: 

  • Give larger, fixed grants to households under the lowest income limits 

  • Still offer help to households with slightly higher income but real affordability challenges 

  • Stretch the budget so no eligible household is turned away 


This makes the program fairer and more sustainable. 

In the past, everyone who qualified for this level of support received the same grant amount. As more households became eligible, that approach was no longer fair or sustainable. There was a danger that some eligible households would be turned away because the money ran out. 

The program now uses variable grant amounts for the Standard Support stream so it can: 

  • Make sure everyone who qualifies can still receive help 

  • Direct the largest support to households with the lowest incomes 

  • Stay within the Council-approved budget 


This change helps avoid a situation where some eligible households would be turned away because the money ran out. 

If you qualify for the Enhanced Support stream, your grant amount is fixed at $1000 for tax credits or $500 for water credits. 

 

Grant amounts for the Standard Support stream are set based on: 

  • The number of eligible applicants 

  • The available program budget after the Enhanced Support applicants have been funded. 


The maximum grant amount for the Standard Stream is $750 for tax credits and $350 for water credits. We expect that in 2026, applicants will receive grants that are slightly less than the maximum.  

Some people may be newly eligible because: 

  • Larger households now have higher income limits 

  • Renters who pay for water based on use (through their landlord) can now apply for water support 

  • People can connect with PELC and use different kinds of documents to prove their income if they don’t have a tax notice 


The intent was to close gaps, not remove support from people already eligible.

It depends on how you pay for water. 

Some renters can apply, and some cannot. The key question is whether water costs are passed on to you based on how much water you use. 

  • You may be able to apply if you pay for water based on your actual use, even if the bill is in your landlord’s name. In this case, water rate increases affect your household directly, similar to a water account holder. You and your landlord will need to fill out a form together to prove your water arrangements. 

  • You cannot apply if water is included in a fixed rent amount. In most cases, rent increases are limited by provincial rules, and water costs are not passed on based on use. This means water rate changes do not affect your household in a direct way. 


The program stays focused on helping residents who clearly feel municipal water rate increases tied to how much water they use. 

The program is tied to municipal bills. 

Rural renters: 

  • Do not receive municipal tax bills 

  • Are not connected to municipal water systems 

  • Are not directly affected by County water and wastewater rate decisions 

Expanding the program to rural renters would change it into a general cost-of-living program. That type of support is handled by other services, not municipalities. 

 

There are other programs that can help you. Go to Help With Payments for a list of supports. Rural renters can get help through Prince Edward Lennox & Addington Social Services (PELASS). 

PELASS programs: 

  • Help with costs like water delivery, heat, electricity, and rent 

  • Use income rules similar to this grant 

  • Can support people who do not have municipal bills 

Income alone does not always show a full financial picture. 

The savings check: 

  • Confirms the support goes to households without large financial resources that can help them pay their bills 

  • Matches how other income-tested programs work 

  • Helps make sure public funds are used responsibly 

This is a small, new support for people who are at risk of having their water shut off and have no other way to pay their bill. 

The MFRG program helps with yearly bills, but it does not work well in urgent situations. This new fund is meant to be a last line of help when disconnection is close, and other options have been tried. 

 

Key things to know: 

  • It is only for households who would qualify for the lowest income level of the program (Enhanced Support) 

  • It is used only in serious, urgent situations 

  • It is not something residents apply for on their own 

 

To access this help, residents work with municipal revenue staff and a trusted community partner. If water disconnection is likely and there are no other solutions, the partner can recommend support to prevent the shut-off.  

 

This approach helps protect health and housing while making sure the support is used carefully and fairly. 

Program History

The Municipal Financial Relief Grant (MFRG) was established in 2022 to help low-income residents pay their municipal tax and water bills. The program was proposed during the last water and wastewater rate study as a tool to ease the impact of rising rates. 

Council approves the program’s annual policy and budget, while The County Foundation oversees day-to-day administration. For 2026, the Prince Edward Learning Centre will now also support with delivering the program and providing 1-on-1 support to applicants.

]]>Fri, 08 May 2026 11:00:22 -0400<![CDATA[New Alternatives for Women Fund Established]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/alternatives-for-women-fundThe County Foundation & Alternatives for Women are proud to announce the establishment of a new agency fund administered by the foundation to ]]>

Building Safe & Accessible Transitional Housing for Women & Families: 
​Alternatives for Women launches new fund at The County Foundation to support capital campaign 

The County Foundation & Alternatives for Women are proud to announce the establishment of a new agency fund administered by the foundation to support Alternatives for Women’s capital campaign to build a new transitional housing building for women and their families to restart their lives.  

The new Alternatives for Women Fund will serve as a dedicated vehicle to receive and steward charitable donations in support of the campaign. Donations are invested under the financial stewardship of The County Foundation to help grow and sustain the campaign’s impact, allowing each gift to go further.  

The campaign for support is already underway, demonstrating strong early momentum and community support. The organization is leveraging its existing building, which now requires constant repairs and maintenance, as a key asset in advancing the project, while early fundraising efforts have generated $100,000 - including a $50,000 matching contribution from another County Foundation donor-advised fund that helped accelerate community giving.  

“We are thrilled to establish a fund with The County Foundation and have community-rooted support that will help ensure a long-term impact for survivors in PEC. Our vision for the new transitional housing is truly a home of hope and healing, ensuring survivors have a transitional home that is dignified, accessible and safe.” Julie Watson, Executive Director of Alternatives for Women. 

The campaign for support is already underway, demonstrating strong early momentum and community support. The organization is leveraging its existing building, which now requires constant repairs and maintenance, as a key asset in advancing the project, while early fundraising efforts have generated $100,000 - including a $50,000 matching contribution from another County Foundation donor-advised fund that helped accelerate community giving.  

“Intimate partner violence continues to be a real and pressing issue in Prince Edward County—one that has been identified as a growing concern in The County Foundation’s most recent Vital Signs report. It is a significant policing challenge in Prince Edward County, with over 300 reported cases in 2025. This fund is an important step toward responding to that reality, and we hope our community will stand with us in supporting and growing this critical investment.” Emily Cowan, Board Chair, Alternatives for Women. 

“An agency fund can be a powerful tool for advancing the long-term goals of a charity because it blends immediate fundraising with sustained financial growth and stability. Working with an organization like Alternatives for Women on this new fund allows us to support their mission to end gender-based violence and further amplify that work they do – including advocacy, education, and support to empower women locally.” Dominique Jones, Executive Director of The County Foundation. 

Support the Alternatives for Women Fund
]]>Mon, 04 May 2026 09:07:24 -0400<![CDATA[Hiring Grants Administrative Assistant (Summer Student Position)]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/hiring-grants-administrative-assistant-summer-student-positionThe County Foundation is seeking a Grants Administrative Assistant to join our team in this summer student position! ]]>

The County Foundation is seeking a Grants Administrative Assistant
to join our team in this summer student position!

Apply by May 15th 2026 at 5pm

$22/hr for 35 hours a week. Hybrid role, with an expectation of 2 office days per week.

The County Foundation is one of over 200 community foundations across Canada, offering collaborative leadership and funding to support initiatives that benefit our community.  Our ongoing work as an asset-builder and grant-maker provides a strategic perspective from which to see trends, challenges and connections in our community.  The County Foundation has 3 core activities: 

  • Vital Signs Data – producing vital signs reports to inform decision making related to community well being  

  • Funds & Grants – creating funds for charitable purposes and helping to distribute grants in the community  

  • Collaborative Action – working with partners to support positive, community-led action in PEC 

Our mission is to inspire giving, facilitate grants, and support collaborative action to address identify community needs by linking a caring community with causes that matter. 

The County Foundation continues to grow and has a new position for a summer student (35 hours per week). This position is hybrid, with an expectation of 2 office days per week. 

Compensation range is: $22.00/hour 

Reporting to the Grants and Communications Manager the key responsibilities are: 

Grants administration support: 

  • Support the intake process of grant applications, including collection of digital and analog applications, review for completeness and any other tasks related to the administration of grant funding 

 

Application support and coordination: 

  • Work directly with applicants either in person or virtually to support the submission of their funding application, ensuring completeness of information and supporting documentation 

 

File and office administration: 

  • Ensure accurate record keeping and filing of grant applications adhering to privacy and confidentiality policies 

  • Support the Grants and Communications Manager in completing reports regarding granting programs 

 

Skills & Qualifications for the position are: 

  • A passion for community impact projects, philanthropy and volunteerism. 

  • Knowledge and experience with Microsoft office, excel and outlook. 

  • A caring and helpful demeanor. 

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 

  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. 

  • Effective communication and collaboration skills. 


Apply Now!

If you are interested in learning more about this position, we would love to hear from you. Please send your resume and cover letter to info@thecountyfoundation.ca with the subject line: Grants Administrative Assistant. The deadline to apply is Friday May 15th 2026. 

]]>Fri, 01 May 2026 14:46:57 -0400<![CDATA[2025 Annual Review]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/2025-annual-reviewLike many communities, we have felt the pressures of rising costs, changing needs, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. And yet, time and again, thi ]]>

2025 Annual Review

Like many communities, we have felt the pressures of rising costs, changing needs, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. And yet, time and again, this community has shown up for one another - with creativity, compassion, and a deep commitment to care.


It was a year shaped by both continuity and change - a reminder that strong communities are built not only through resources, but through relationships, leadership, and a shared commitment to understanding and responding to local needs. As we look back, we are proud of the milestones reached and deeply grateful for the collective effort that made them possible.


Highlights from the report include:

  • Surpassed a major milestone of $11.5 million in grants facilitated since inception, reflecting deep donor trust and lasting community impact.
  • Stewardship of over $10 million in assets, demonstrating strong confidence in The County Foundation’s ability to manage resources responsibly and respond to evolving needs.
  • Advanced community insight and collaboration through the Vital Signs focus report on Social Infrastructure and the launch of a live Community Well-being Data Dashboard, improving access to data and supporting collective impact.


Read 2025 Annual Review

Read past editions of our Annual Review & Financial Statements

]]>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:37:05 -0400<![CDATA[Planning Your Legacy: How Gifts in Your Will Can Change Lives]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/planning-your-legacy-how-gifts-in-your-will-can-change-livesOn May 29th , The County Foundation is hosting an event at the Picton Yacht Club from 2:00-3:30pm for those looking to learn more about how to give thr ]]>

Planning Your Legacy: How Gifts in Your Will Can Change Lives

On May 29th, The County Foundation is hosting an event at the Picton Yacht Club from 2:00-3:30pm for those looking to learn more about how to give through your Will and what the benefit is for the charities and causes that you care about. Join estate lawyer M. Cath Collins and Dominique Jones, Executive Director of The County Foundation, for a session on planned giving.

RSVP to Attend - Planning Your Legacy

What is a Bequest? Bequests are gifts that are made as part of a Will. Most of us (at some point) will go through the process of creating or updating a Will. A bequest is a direction that you put in your Will that says you would like to give donations and you get to decide what that looks like. 

The County Foundation can work with you to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to record your intentions and expectations. Nothing in the MOU legally binds you to make a gift. In the MOU, you can dictate if you want to contribute toward an existing fund or establish a new fund. You can tell us what charities or causes you want to support. We can help you develop your giving plan to ensure we respect your wishes and provide guidance every step of the way.

Learn more about Bequests & Endowments

]]>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 08:04:39 -0400<![CDATA[Announcing 2025 Vital Impact Fund Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/Announcing-the-2025-Vital-Impact-Fund-RecipientsSee the full list of recipients below and learn more about the activities they'll be carrying out in 2026! The County Foundation is pleased to announce ]]>

Announcing the 2025 Vital Impact Fund Recipients

See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the activities they'll be carrying out in 2026!

The County Foundation is pleased to announce this year’s Vital Impact Fund grant recipients. More than $180,000 in Vital Impact Fund grants will support five local intiatives, with funded activities rolling out over the next year. 


The Vital Impact Fund was established by The County Foundation as our new signature fund that unites the work of our Vital Signs data with our grants to better serve the needs of Prince Edward County. Vital Signs® data is an ongoing consolidated snapshot of the trends and most vital community well-being issues in Prince Edward County. 


This year’s grant recipients reflect a clear and powerful theme: investing in people, programs, and ideas that support an evolving community. 

“The Vital Impact Fund responds directly to the trends, challenges, and opportunities highlighted by the local data in Vital Signs. The grants this year prioritized initiatives that strengthen families, support children and youth, and help members of our community feel connected, supported, and empowered. Funding like this supports inclusive communities with an aim to benefit all generations, and to respond to change and population shifts,” -Dominique Jones, Executive Director of The County Foundation   

"The Department of Illumination is thrilled and incredibly grateful to the County Foundation for their support of our program Art Kitchen 2.0 through their Vital Fund granting stream. Art Kitchen 2.0 is a reimagining of the Art Kitchen program we have been offering in The Macaulay Village Park over the past three years. Thanks to the Vital Impact Fund’s support, our expanded program will now run year round, and through partnerships with The County, The Macaulay Village Neighbourhood Group, PELC, TheROC, County Kids Read, and Victoria Taylor Landscape Architect, the program will offer a holistic range of services and activities rooted in a community-centred approach to serving the needs of this important Prince Edward County neighbourhood.” -Hri Neil, Project Coordinator, Department of Illumination.

“We’re proud to be working together on the Child Care Pilot Program, a partnership that reflects our shared commitment to strengthening childcare availability in Prince Edward County. This funding enables the municipality and Reaching for Rainbows to build on each other’s strengths and explore initiatives that respond to the needs of local families. With support from the Vital Impact Fund, we're able to take innovative steps towards improving the childcare system in the County and we’re excited about the positive impact this collaboration will have on children, caregivers and the community as a whole." -Emily Cowan, Director of Community Services, Programs and Initiatives for the County of Prince Edward, and Beth Lafay, Executive Director of Reaching for Rainbows. 

2025 Grant Recipients

The Vital Impact Fund is adjudicated by The County Foundation’s Grants & Vital Signs Committees. 


Five initiatives were selected to receive a total of $180,117 of funding for 2025. Below is a breakdown of the recipients, as well as a summary of their plans for the funding. We thank everyone who applied to the second year of this program, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of their work over the next year.

 Funded Organization/Initiative  Vital Signs Alignment – Summary 
 *Does not reflect the breadth of the application and the alignment to Vital Signs
 
Alternatives for Women’s Caring Dads Program that aims to educate fathers who are at risk of causing harm to their children and their mothers. 
 In 2024, there were 222 domestic violence incidents reported in Prince Edward County. Domestic violence is one of the main policing challenges in PEC. 
 

A collaborative project focused on addressing the County's urgent childcare needs spearheaded by the County. Includes: 

  1. Offering students transportation between Loyalist College and the HUB for hands-on learning opportunities; 

  1. In partnership with Reaching for Rainbows, offering co-working / child-minding space for limited times during the week; 

  1. Explore evening and weekend care through partnerships with Reaching for Rainbows or other not-for-profit organizations providing recreational programming. 

 Vital Signs 2025: “When families lack nearby childcare, it strains their ability to balance work, education, and caregiving – directly impacting well-being ... The waiting list [for the HUB Child & Family Centre] has grown from 155 in 2021 to 350, reflecting growth in the age 0–9 population.” 

The Department of Illumination’s Art Kitchen 2.0. Expanding the DOI’s free drop-in arts programming and providing access to additional services and resources for the historically underserved Macaulay Village community. Through collaboration with several partners, services will include mental health, nutritional and financial supports, as well as mentorship in advocacy and community-building.


 
The 2025 Vital Signs report focused on the importance of social infrastructure in communities. “Social isolation and loneliness are increasingly being recognized as a priority public health problem and policy issue across all age groups.” 
 Youth Inclusion Program (YIP) offered through theROC Youth Services. Youth program focused on conflict resolution, positive leadership, social-emotional learning, substance misuse and truancy prevention leading to increased high school graduation and youth success.  
The 2023 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS) reports that 38% of students rate their mental health as fair or poor, 37% 
experience elevated stress, and 51% report moderate-to-serious psychological distress, doubling over the past decade (CAMH, 2024). 
 Operational support for Reaching for Rainbows to support growth and sustainability as an organization filling programming gaps for children, youth and girls helping to solve many of the challenges PEC faces such as lack of childcare options and spaces.  
From Vital Signs databank: “People who are living in poverty are more likely to face health-related setbacks; to have difficulty accessing transportation, finding and keeping a job; to find themselves in the criminal justice system; and to need various social supports and assistance. Also, children who grow up in poverty are more likely to remain in poverty as they age.” (Canada Without Poverty) 

Supporting the Vital Impact Fund

How to Give 

If you are passionate about supporting organizations that address the most urgent community well-being needs in PEC as highlighted by Vital Signs data, consider giving in the following ways: 
  • Donate using a credit card through Canada Helps. Select "Vital Impact Fund" from the drop down menu. 
  • We can accept Interac e-Transfers sent to info@thecountyfoundation.ca. Indicate "Vital Impact Fund" in the notes section. 
  • Make cheques payable to The County Foundation, and use the memo line to specify the Vital Impact Fund.
    Cheques can be mailed to: 

More Information

]]>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 10:34:47 -0500<![CDATA[Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/elderberry-fund-celebrates-grant-recipients2Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients We are excited to celebrate the incredible organizations who have been selected as the grant recipients fro ]]>

Elderberry Fund Celebrates Grant Recipients

We are excited to celebrate the incredible organizations who have been selected as the grant recipients from the Elderberry Fund, which has made a meaningful donation that will support critical resources to strengthen services, operations, and benefit the PEC community overall. 

The Elderberry Fund is a donor-advised fund established by a local couple whose support will have a positive impact on community-building organizations and causes that are close to their hearts. The fund is administered by The County Foundation. 

"It's a privilege to work with thoughtful donors who understand the importance of providing vital support by investing in both service programs and operations, enabling organizations to concentrate on advancing their missions. Together, we are able to amplify their generosity and strengthen an incredible number of organizations across many sectors,” - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director of The County Foundation

“We are happy to play our part to support our beloved PEC by investing in vital community organizations. We salute these organizations that are powered by volunteers and build community on many levels, including employing talented local staff, and providing essential services. We’re thankful for the guidance and stewardship of The County Foundation, comprised of a volunteer board, along with excellent staff including Acting ED Gillian Armstrong, and returning ED Dominique Jones. Their Vital Signs report data identifies the needs in the County that helps direct donations to help “build a place where everyone belongs and all can thrive.”  Elderberry Fund Donors.

Elderberry Fund Grant Recipients

Alternatives for Women 

Alternatives for Women provides safe and confidential support services while working to end violence and abuse against women 

Baxter Arts Centre 

Baxter Arts Centre provides a creative community space for the delivery of arts related programs and service 

BIGLAKE Arts 

BIGLAKE Festival is a summer celebration of immersive musical experiences in Prince Edward County, offering quality classical music 

County Arts (Prince Edward County Arts Council) 

Enriching the community by actively supporting and promoting the arts and artists as an essential part of life in Prince Edward County. Additional support for the Indigenous Voices Fund which provides direct financial support to Indigenous artists 

County FM 

Radio broadcaster in Prince Edward County 

County Kids Read 

County Kids Read distributes free books to youth in need 

County Stage Company 

Produce innovative and imaginative theatre, inspiring creativity and pride of place in Prince Edward County 

Department of Illumination 

Company of artists who aim to bring joy and creativity to our community by producing festivals, workshops, and other artistic events 

Hastings Prince Edward Learning Centre 

Food for Learning ensures that all students have daily access to healthy nutritious food while at school 

Hospice Prince Edward 

Offers quality of life, dignity in death, and grief and bereavement support to individuals affected by life-limiting illnesses 

HUB Child & Family Centre 

Provide quality licensed child care and early learning 

Kenhteke Seed Sanctuary 

A safe space for sharing knowledge and community seeds to promote growth and learning grounded in Rotinnonhsyon:ni values 

Library of Prince Edward 

Prince Edward County Public Library provide excellence in library services to the community 

Ontario Farmland Trust 

Mission is to protect and preserve Ontario farmlands 

PEC Memorial Hospital Foundation 

Advance health care for the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County 

Prince Edward Learning Centre 

PEC Fresh Good Food Market makes fresh fruits and vegetables accessible to everyone at affordable prices 

Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory 

Conservation organization that studies, monitors, and reports on the migration, breeding patterns and ecosystems of birds throughout Prince Edward County 

Picton United Church Food Bank 

Provide short-term assistance by acquiring and sharing food 

Reaching for Rainbows 

Provides a safe space for girls six to twelve years old to foster friendships, a feeling of belonging, and a greater sense of self 

Regent Theatre 

From movies to concerts to live-streams, The Regent Theatre brings year-round entertainment to The County and beyond 

ROC Youth Services 

Empower Prince Edward County youth to succeed socially, emotionally, and academically by prioritizing their wellbeing and safety; fostering resiliency and a sense of community 

Sandy Pines Wildlife 

Help all injured and orphaned wildlife (including mammals, birds, reptiles/amphibians) and release them back into the wild 

Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na 

Language revitalization, cultural education, and community empowerment through Kanyen’kehá:ka knowledge and teachings 

Wellington Storehouse Foodbank 

Collects food for families in need to redistribute locally 

 

Learn more about setting up a fund with The County Foundation
Discover how setting up a donor fund can help you support the causes you care about.

]]>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:59:20 -0500<![CDATA[2025 In-Kind Municipal Community Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/2025-in-kind-municipal-community-grants2025 Municipal Community In-Kind Grant Recipients An additional six community organizations are enhancing the quality of life for residents thanks to i ]]>

2025 Municipal Community In-Kind Grant Recipients

An additional six community organizations are enhancing the quality of life for residents thanks to in-kind support from the County of Prince Edward.

 

The second round of applications to the in-kind stream of the Municipal Community Grants program opened this past fall. With these six additional successful applications, the municipality has provided a total of $20,000 of in-kind support to 12 organizations in 2025. In addition, 30 organizations have received cash grants this year. A list of all 2025 recipients can be found here. 

"There are so many outstanding organizations and volunteers doing incredible work across Prince Edward County. I am thrilled that we can lend a hand to these groups so that they can have an even greater impact on the community." - Mayor Steve Ferguson

"“We're proud to partner on this program, which strengthens the work of community organizations by giving them access to resources they need. Offering grants for municipal venues or labour reduces their costs so they can redirect their time and budgets toward initiatives that create positive impact across the County." - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director of The County Foundation

2025 Grant Recipients (Second Intake)

The recipients during the secondary intake period include:

  • The County Marathon
    $2,000 to support the rental of the Crystal Palace in Picton
  • Grow With Me Programs
    $1,779 to support the rental of the Sophiasburgh Town Hall for Professional Activity (PA) day camps and after school programming
  • Prince Edward Learning Centre
    $2,000 to support ice rental for the County Cup, a community-based fundraising hockey tournament 
  • Shatterbox Theatre
    $958 to support the rental of the Sophiasburgh Town Hall for the rehearsal of shows Silent Sky and Next to Normal
  • Terror  at Macaulay event 
    $1,500 to support the rental of Macaulay House, side grounds, and Carriage House
  • Together Through Pain
    $1,652 to support the rental of Picton Town Hall for seven monthly support group meetings

The Municipal Community Grants Program is made possible through funding from the County of Prince Edward and is administered by The County Foundation (TCF). The County Foundation works with an adjudication panel to determine which applicants receive the grants.


There are two intake periods for the in-kind funding stream. The primary intake takes place in the Spring with the full amount of funding for the year available. The secondary intake occurs in the Fall and allocates the remaining in-kind funds to projects scheduled later in the cycle, which often have shorter planning timelines. 

]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:34:05 -0500<![CDATA[Giving Tuesday 2025]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/Giving-Tuesday-2025The County Foundation is the local community foundation for Prince Edward County. We can help you support the organizations and causes that you care a ]]>

Giving Tuesday 2025

The County Foundation is the local community foundation for Prince Edward County. We can help you support the organizations and causes that you care about the most by helping your giving go further.







A word from TCF Board Chair Braydon Scully on the power of community-focused giving:

As we approach the upcoming holiday season and the noise inherent in the mass consumerism that marks this time of year, I like to reflect on community, on family and on how I can give back to my community of friends and fellow county residents.  I consider myself very fortunate to have found this wonderful place to call home and for everything and everyone that goes along with that.

The County Foundation has been part of my life now for coming up on 5 years, with my final year of service ahead, ending in December of 2026.  The County Foundation has played an integral role in helping me to both understand the community better and to learn more about the County, its residents and some of the issues we face.


We have fantastic opportunities here in Prince Edward County and many exciting things to get involved with as a volunteer, a participant or as a financial supporter. That is where I am asking you today, on Giving Tuesday, to consider how you can support your community.  Whether with a financial gift to a favourite local organization or charity, a one-time donation to our Vital Impact Fund or perhaps a consideration to leave a legacy donation to have your impact felt for many years to come. No amount is too small to have an impact, as it is our collective focus that continues to drive this community forward.


Our Vital Signs 2025 Focus report was recently released and highlights some key areas of learning.  With a focus on connection, the report discusses the importance of creating and celebrating spaces to connect in the community. It also highlights some of the barriers to connection that we face such as social isolation, housing instability, lower civic engagement and centralization of services.  It also celebrates some of the ways we are, as a community, maintaining those connections with the rise of new public markets, outdoor theatre, accessible community gatherings, local news outlets and radio and with volunteerism.

The County Foundation crossed the milestone of stewarding grants totaling more than $10 million dollars in the local community this year and the impact of those have been remarkable.  With your donation we can continue this into the future to help the County face the issues of both today and tomorrow. 


With Thanks,

Braydon Scully

Board Chair, The County Foundation

If you are interested in supporting our work, consider making an end-of-year donation to one of our funds or community initiatives, such as:

PEC’s Vital Signs: Your support provide resources for research & reports, community engagement, and expanding community awareness.

The Vital Impact Fund: Addressing the most urgent needs in PEC as highlighted by Vital Signs data.

The PEC Arts Fund: Support a pathway to establishing more sustainable funding for all arts organizations.

And our other established funds!

While we have highlighted our above funds, we also have a list of existing funds that can also be supported. Your generosity helps strengthen initiatives that are already assisting our community and expanding access to vital resources.

Make a Donation Today

TCF Granting Highlights

Over 1 million in grants facilitated in 2025 (so far!).

Over $600,000 granted through our Donor Advised Funds so far in 2025 including a recent grant of $100,000 to the HUB Child & Family Centre in support of the expansion of childcare services in the County.

Over 2.8 million in grants facilitated in 2024.

Learn More

The County Foundation is one of 208 Community Foundations in Canada. Since it was founded in 2008, The County Foundation has facilitated granting of over $10 million in Prince Edward County. 

  • About The County Foundation
  • About our Grants and Funds
  • About PEC's Vital Signs
  • Why give through The County Foundation?
    • ]]>    Tue, 02 Dec 2025 08:25:00 -0500    <![CDATA[2025 Huff Family Fund Grant Recipients]]>https://www.thecountyfoundation.ca/news-and-events/post/2025-huff-family-fund-grant-recipientsAnnouncing the 2025 Huff Family Fund Recipients See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the projects they'll be carrying out over th ]]>

    Announcing the 2025 Huff Family Fund Recipients

    See the full list of recipients below and learn more about the projects they'll be carrying out over the next year!

    The County Foundation was pleased to announce the 2025 Huff Family Fund grant recipients at Huff Estates Winery on November 26th, 2025.

    The Huff Family Fund was established in 2017 and officially launched in 2018 and is managed by The County Foundation. The Huff Fund supports a broad range of organizations benefiting Prince Edward County including addiction and mental health, animal welfare, arts and culture, healthcare and human services, housing issues and Vital Signs priority areas. Thank you to Lanny and Catharine for their ongoing commitment to supporting Prince Edward County.

    “The Huff Family Fund continues to make a profound impact across our community, empowering organizations across many sectors. Their leadership reminds us how powerful it is when individuals and families choose to give back. We are fortunate in Prince Edward County to have donors like the Huff Family, who recognize the value of broad, cross-sector support and who support programs and services that impact so many people in Prince Edward County.” - Gillian Armstrong, Interim Executive Director, The County Foundation 

    2025 Grant Recipients

    The 2025 Huff Family Fund grants totaling $250k will benefit 22 organizations who make a difference in our community across many vital sectors. The Huff Family Fund is a matching grant, meaning that each dollar received must be matched by either dollars or volunteer time, increasing the impact of the funding. 

     Al Purdy A-frame Association APAFA will increase the numbers of weeks of residency, develop and launch a second Mentorship Fellowship, develop a Community Project Resource Tool for writers, and increase the number of events. 
     Baxter Arts Centre Funding will support the growth and expansion of Baxter's programming, including game workshops and the continuation of the Bloomfield Night Time Parade's 'Pre-Parade Activities' event. Funding will also support the continuation and expansion of Baxter's Summer Camps and 20 week-long camps. 
     Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) Funding will support the Adjustment to Sight Loss (A2SL) 7-week program.  

    Community Care For Seniors 

    		Funding will be used to purchase essential kitchen equipment for the newly established County Seniors' Centre in Picton (including a fridge, stove, microwave, and 10-piece cookware set) from a local supplier. 
    County Food Hub Funding to support a 5-week culinary course in PEC held at County Food Hub (CFH) that provides no-cost, universally accessible, cooking classes.  
    County Stage Company Funding supports the 2026 Season, which will include 4 productions produced by CSC's repertory company performed in venues across PEC. 
    Driftwood Theatre Young Playmakers Program (YPM) program for PEC youth ages 11-17. 
    Heal with Horses Ensure the high-quality nutrition of their animals, who are essential for their delivery of effective programming (including equine therapy & small farm animal interactions. 
    Humane Society HPE  Supporting HSHPE's Pet Food Bank, which was recently soft launched to address the "growing but unseen need" of pet food insecurity. 
    Music at Port Milford  Funding to build new music practice sheds at its Port Milford campus, offering dedicated space for focused individual practice. 
    Ontario Farmland Trust 
    Advance farmland protection by establishing OFT-PEC Alliance, which will provide place-based outreach, volunteer opportunities, and communications specific to PEC.
     Prince Edward Learning Centre  Support for the Financial Empowerment program team to connect PEC residents with low incomes to two undersubscribed federal benefits (Disability Tax Credit & the Registered Disability Savings Plan) and support them through the months-long application process. 
    Quintissimo Funding will support providing underprivileged youth aged 6-12 with free instrumental music education at Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. 
    Reaching for Rainbows Expanding programming to ages 6-12 and establishing a new STEM-focused program for the older group. 
    Alzheimer Society of Hastings-Prince Edward Program providing people living with dementia 12 weeks of in-home activity and companionship, while offering relief/respite to caregivers. 
    County Museums Flashback February - Exhibition featuring a series of lesser-known objects from museum collection, displayed alongside new works created by 10 local textile artists that are inspired by these collection items. 
    Department of Illumination Continuation of Delhi Park Pageant project; a free community arts programming in Delhi Park culminating in an annual pageant. 
    HPE Learning Foundation Requesting support for 3 core programs, including Food for Learning, Sharing Cupboards, and the Student Emergency Fund. 
    Comedy Country Funding supports a live comedy series and training program. 
     TheROC Youth Services Funding supports Get Grounded; a three-week mental well-being workshop designed specifically for intermediate youth (Grades 7-8) in Prince Edward County. 
    Three Oaks Foundation Provides emergency shelter and support services for women and their children who are experiencing abuse. Funding to expand services by offering taxi transportation for women from Prince Edward County back to their communities—for appointments, school, work, or other connections. 
    Young Imaginations An initiative that brings the Rotinonhsyón:ni culture alive for youth 8 to 12 through immersive arts experiences. 

    In addition to the above, there are several ongoing multi-year commitments through the Huff Family Fund which include:  

     County Kids Read Distribute 1800 books (600 per year) focused on enhancing literacy and STEM learning opportunities.  
     Prince Edward Public Library & Archives  Annual series of author talks in June, tied to Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, and Pride Month in June.  
     Prince Edward County Arts Council  Art Together: Free weekly drop-in facilitated art-making studio led by professional Artist Facilitators for community members 16+. 

    Thank you to each of the 22 organizations that have been supported through the Huff Family Fund this year. We deeply appreciate your commitment to this community and your contributions to make Prince Edward County a place where all can belong and thrive. 

    ]]>    Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:31:11 -0500