The Boys and Girls Club of Niagara has received a $88,700 Seed grant from the provincial government to support 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
On Tuesday, MPP Jennie Stevens met with the team at BGC Niagara as they celebrated the enhanced programming.
“This Ontario Trillium Foundation Seed grant of $88,700 is a meaningful investment in youth across Niagara. Over the next 12 months, the Boys and Girls Club of Niagara will pilot a new 2SLGBTQIA+ youth group to provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming space where young people can build resilience, confidence, and strong connections in their community,” said Jennie Stevens, MPP for St. Catharines. “This initiative reflects the Club’s commitment to inclusion and ensuring every young person has access to the support they need to thrive. Thank you to the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Boys and Girls Club of Niagara for strengthening community programs that make a real difference for local youth.”
The enhanced program works to provide safe, inclusive, and affirming spaces with opportunities for participants to connect with peers, develop life and leadership skills, and access trusted resources and supports.
“This funding helps us expand a safe, inclusive, and affirming space where 2SLGBTQIA+ youth can connect, build skills, and feel a strong sense of belonging,” said Joe Macoretta, BGC Niagara’s CEO. “We believe that every young person deserves a trusted place where they feel seen, respected, and safe, and where they know they belong. This program strengthens our commitment to providing that sense of connection and community.”
Beyond programming, the grant also supports the creation of physical space designed with inclusivity, privacy, and safety in mind in Fort Erie.
A dividing wall was installed to establish a dedicated program area complete with seating and tables.
Spaces in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls were enhanced to make them more inviting.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for recognizing the importance of this program for youth across Niagara,” added Joe. “This investment will have a lasting impact on the mental health, well-being, and futures of young people in our community.”
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