Fourteen community projects across Kawartha Lakes are sharing $67,500 to address issues ranging from food security and housing to mental health and social inclusion.
The Kawartha Community Foundation has announced the recipients of its 2026 Social Sustainability Fund, bringing the program’s total investment in local initiatives to more than $100,000 since its launch.
Seeded by the City of Kawartha Lakes and administered by the Foundation, the fund supports projects focused on poverty and housing, food security, mental health and belonging, and equity, inclusion and diversity.
Among this year’s recipients, the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes is receiving $10,000 for Safe Together Kawartha, a pilot project providing temporary emergency care for pets when individuals and families experience a crisis or housing instability.
The John Howard Society of the Kawarthas is also receiving $10,000 for its Rural Youth Connections Initiative, which will bring mental health, mentoring, recreation and life-skills programming to youth in underserved rural communities.
The Grove Theatre was awarded just over $8,850 for an inclusive after-school theatre program designed to build confidence, creativity and social connections among children and youth.
Kawartha Lakes Food Source is receiving $8,000 to develop an accessible online resource providing current information about local food banks and other food supports.
Operations and Engagement Manager Carissa Ferguson says surpassing $100,000 in overall community investment is an important milestone for the fund.
Since its launch, the Social Sustainability Fund has supported 23 projects across Kawartha Lakes, including emergency food and housing programs, youth mental health initiatives, mentorship and newcomer inclusion.
