The Arab Community Centre of Toronto Recognizes Contributions from the Ontario Government and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Toronto, ON – July 9, 2024 – Recently, MPP David Smith and MP Salma Zahid were at the Arab Community Centre of Toronto (ACCT) to see and hear about the results of two grants from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). An Open House was held at the ACCT’s new Scarborough location at 1855 Lawrence Avenue East, which has already become a crucial hub for delivering a wide range of services to our community members.
“The Arab Community Centre of Toronto has been instrumental in providing a wide range of services to the community,
helping newcomers navigate the systems in Ontario,” said David Smith, MPP for Scarborough Centre. “I am gratefully proud of their work in preparing many individuals who seek their guidance and direction through the use of arts, education, job seeking, skilled trades, personal support workers youth and childcare workers, among others. Let us continue to give them the best support for their great work and services in Scarborough and beyond.”
Last fall, ACCT learned it had been successful with their application and would be receiving a six-month, $87,900 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation. The OTF grant has been instrumental in the renovation of the organization’s new Scarborough facility, which included upgrades to the building’s flooring, the ground floor kitchen space and the front entrance too.
The IRCC has also been a pivotal partner in this endeavour, supporting the organization’s effort to assist newcomers and promote their successful integration into Canadian society. As a result of these two grants from both levels of government, ACCT has been able to enhance the quality of services and support it provides to the Arab community in Toronto.
“We are immensely grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for their unwavering support,” said Dima Amad, Executive Director of ACCT. “Their contributions have been transformative, enabling us to expand and improve our services, and ultimately, better serve our community.”
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Arab Community Centre of Toronto 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 that it remains 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.
The Arab Community Centre of Toronto is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the Arab commu:nity in Toronto by providing a range of services including settlement support, language training, employment assistance, and cultural programming. Our mission is to support and empower newcomers and community members to achieve their full potential in Canadian society.
For more information, please contact:
Dima Amad, Executive Director
Arab Community Centre of Toronto
dima@acctonline.ca
