WINDSOR-ESSEX PRIDE FEST REVEALS RENOVATIONS TO THEIR 2SLGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY SPACE THANKS TO GRANT FUNDING
Windsor, ON – On Friday, Windsor Essex Pride Fest welcomed local MPP Andrew Dowie, local media and members of the public to its office on Ottawa Street to reveal the recent renovations to as well as to recognize a $28,300 Capital Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“This investment by the Ontario Trillium Foundation helps the Windsor-Essex Pride Fest with additional space for more individuals to utilize the services they provide for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Windsor-Essex,” said Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor—Tecumseh. “They work tirelessly to keep our region a place where all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community can thrive, and investment by our government through OTF will ensure that they can expand their programming and continue to offer services in a safe, inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy”.
The grant, first awarded in September 2023, has helped Windsor Essex Pride Fest complete renovations and reconfiguring of their community space for the local 2-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) community over 1 year.
“The impact of this funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant cannot be underestimated,” said Wendi Nicholson, President of the Windsor Essex Pride Fest. “These renovations have allowed us to make our space more efficient, usable and accessible to accommodate more individuals using our community space.” Our mission is to strengthen the sense of community and contribute to the vibrancy, health and overall well-being of all 2SLGBTQIA+ persons in Windsor-Essex” and this truly has made a tremendous difference for us to achieve that mission”.
Windsor-Essex Pride Fest delivers social programs to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals of all ages yearly. Much of the free programming, including QConnect Youth Drop In for ages 12-18, Young Adult Mixer for adults ages 19-29, QConnect Plus Social nights for seniors, Two-Spirit Group and more, all takes place at the Windsor-Essex Pride Fest community space.
Interest in Windsor-Essex Pride Fest social programming has increased since COVID-19, resulting in the need for a larger dedicated, safe in-person programming space. Our renovation of the community space allows for more, expanded programming in a safe, inclusive 2SLGBTQIA+community dedicated space.
Windsor-Essex Pride Fest is an incorporated non-profit run by a volunteer Board of Directors that deliver safe, inclusive programs, services, events and initiatives accessible to all members of the Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (2SLGBTQIA+), their family, caregivers, allies and friend and seeks to strengthen and contribute to the health, resilience and overall well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in Windsor-Essex. Visit www.wepridefest.com
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like Windsor-Essex Pride Fest 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 they remain 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.
