Muskoka Community Grant Program

The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting community-funded programs. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address the needs of our most vulnerable. Two grant opportunities are available:

Pay It Forward (PIF)

Available since 2012, PIF provides grants of up to $2,500. 
Open to community members or grassroots groups.
Supports projects that bring people together, fill a community need and create positive change.

Community Enhancement Fund (CE)

Available since 2020, CE provides grants of up to $10,000. 
Open to non-profit community organizations and registered charities.
Funds initiatives that address poverty reduction, food security, housing, education and training opportunities, volunteer and job development, and community engagement.

Pay It Forward (PIF)

Available since 2012, PIF provides grants of up to $2,500. 
Open to community members or grassroots groups.
Supports projects that bring people together, fill a community need and create positive change.

Community Enhancement Fund (CE)

Available since 2020, CE provides grants of up to $10,000. 
Open to non-profit community organizations and registered charities.
Funds initiatives that address poverty reduction, food security, housing, education and training opportunities, volunteer and job development, and community engagement.

2026 Muskoka Community Grant Recipients Announced

The District of Muskoka is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Program, which provides funding for local projects that strengthen the community and support Muskoka’s most vulnerable residents.

This year, $65,888 in funding has been awarded to 20 recipients through two grant streams: the Pay It Forward (PIF) program and the Community Enhancement (CE) Fund.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community
Building community capacity and leadership
Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need
Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction
Food security
Housing and living conditions
Education and training opportunities
Volunteer and job development
Citizen engagement

Funded projects include initiatives focused on social connection, food security, housing stability, and community well-being. Successful Projects are listed in the chart below.

The District extends its thanks to all applicants for their commitment to building up their communities and making a difference.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Foundations for Independence	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$2,338	Bringing together students with Developmental Disabilities from various Muskoka secondary schools to network and establish relationships that will help them in their adult lives.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, MacTier, Bala, Port Carling, Port Sydney, Kilworthy, Severn Bridge, etc.	$2,500	Addresses humanitarian needs in Muskoka where there are gaps. Collect and disperse household items donated by community members, provide aid for food, housing, rent, basic needs in emergency situations.
Friends of the MacTier Library	Townships of Georgian Bay, Muskoka Lakes and Seguin Township	$1,000	Funding two literary events. Indigenous author will share the 'art of storytelling’ in two workshops, one with adults and one with children and youth.
Imagination Library Muskoka West and Gravenhurst	Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Wahta, Bala, possibly Port Carling	$1,300	Expansion of Dolly Parton's Imagination Libraries providing free books to children in Muskoka.
Muskoka Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (MAHT Coalition)	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$1,755	Prevention initiative to equip Grade 9 students across Muskoka with the digital and social skills to prevent human trafficking. Recognizing that teenagers are primary targets for human trafficking, this project provides delivery of potentially life-saving information.
Muskoka Printmaker Collective	Huntsville, Dorset	$2,000	Delivery of printmaking workshops that will be free for participants to attend. Targeting participants who may not have means/access to otherwise attend, artists will teach classes such as Lino Block, Dry Point Intaglio, Silkscreen Printing, and Letter Writing.
Sewing Camp	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$900	Providing the materials for sewing workshops and camps to the Muskoka community, schools, and libraries at no charge to participants.
Total PIF		$11,793

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Camp Winston Foundation	Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Bracebridge	$5,000	Grandfamily Christmas Camp initiative to serve additional kinship-care families in Muskoka. Community-based holiday program designed specifically for grandparents raising grandchildren, a population that frequently experiences financial hardship, caregiving stress, and social isolation. Many of the children being raised in kinship-care arrangements also live with neurodevelopmental challenges or trauma-related needs.
Corner Lighthouse Food Bank and Community Hub	Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Novar, Dwight, Port Sydney, Utterson, Allensville	$5,000	Purchase non-food items that are essential to quality of life for people living in poverty and assisting with transportation to and from Food Bank and Community Hub.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty	Gravenhurst and area	$5,000	Weekly Healthy Snacks for Children initiative. This initiative is an expansion of the Healthy Summer Snacks for Children initiative that was launched in July 2025. The initiative is designed to provide children with nutritious, ready to eat snack bags, containing items that supplement their daily food intake when access to school-based nutrition programs is unavailable (i.e. the summer months).
Hospice Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Port Carling, Bala, Mactier, Torrence, Baysville, Port Sydney, Utterson, Wahta, Moose Deer	$2,500	To offer a Practical Caregiver Training Program which is a comprehensive, evidence-informed initiative designed to equip family and informal caregivers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to provide safe, compassionate, and informed care.
Lake of Bays Curling & Bocce Club	Lake of Bays, Baysville	$4,238	Free certified First Aid and CPR training to strengthen safety, preparedness and community resilience within the rural area. Equipping community members and volunteers ensuring they are trained to respond to medical emergencies.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	The Step Up Program is designed to address essential needs that go beyond food assistance such as basic personal care and household hygiene products not covered by social assistance or food benefit programs.
Mission Committee of Knox Presbyterian Church	Bracebridge	$3,500	Emergency Food boxes containing nutritious non-perishable food, toiletries, household cleaning supplies, eggs, frozen vegetables, potatoes, and $10 gift card to those in need. The desire to provide fresh produce resulted in the Community Garden Program needing seeds, supplies, and manure.
Muskoka Arts & Crafts Inc.	Bracebridge, Muskoka Lakes, Huntsville, Gravenhurst	$4,000	Artist-led free workshops aimed at youth. All materials will be provided, making participation accessible to all ages and skill levels. Hosted at Chapel Gallery and pop-up sessions throughout Muskoka, this program partners with different not-for-profit organizations each month to reach new and diverse segments of the community.
Muskoka Indigenous Friends Cultural Centre	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$2,500	Ribbon Skirt Making Workshop providing a healing activity supporting the Muskoka urban Indigenous community’s cultural needs while bridging reconciliation with non-Indigenous allies. Workshop will coincide with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Muskoka Women's Shelters and Services	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$4,357	A free three day/two night retreat for girls ages 12-15 who have experienced and/or witnessed gender based violence. The weekend will include therapy, yoga, beading, and topics to rebuild and strengthen.
Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge, Baysville, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Walker’s Point, Bala, Port Carling, Glen Orchard, Melissa, Vankoughnet, Milford Bay, Mactier, Port Sydney, Dorset, Windermere, Dwight	$5,000	The Beds for Muskoka Kids program will address the need for beds, mattresses and bedding for children. Keeping children/youth as close to their family unit as possible, they are at times living in or placed in homes that meet every other requirement but lack appropriate sleeping arrangements, leading to instability and discomfort during what can be an already challenging period in their lives. This initiative ensures they have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in during their emergency placements.
The Salvation Army Huntsville Food Bank & Family Services	Huntsville, Lake of Bays - Baysville, Dwight, Utterson, Port Sydney.	$5,000	Initiative designed to improve access to nutritious food for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity in Huntsville and surrounding areas. Program will support the purchase of additional fresh/healthy food items to supplement the food bank.
The Salvation Army South Muskoka Ministries	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst	$3,000	State-of-the-art mobile kitchen brings a healthy meal with lots of heart to the community. Volunteers facilitate the meal and ensure there is a space for friends and neighbours to share in conversation and good food.
Total CE		$54,095

This year, $65,888 in funding has been awarded to 20 recipients through two grant streams: the Pay It Forward (PIF) program and the Community Enhancement (CE) Fund.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community
Building community capacity and leadership
Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need
Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction
Food security
Housing and living conditions
Education and training opportunities
Volunteer and job development
Citizen engagement

Funded projects include initiatives focused on social connection, food security, housing stability, and community well-being. Successful Projects are listed in the chart below.

The District extends its thanks to all applicants for their commitment to building up their communities and making a difference.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Foundations for Independence	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$2,338	Bringing together students with Developmental Disabilities from various Muskoka secondary schools to network and establish relationships that will help them in their adult lives.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, MacTier, Bala, Port Carling, Port Sydney, Kilworthy, Severn Bridge, etc.	$2,500	Addresses humanitarian needs in Muskoka where there are gaps. Collect and disperse household items donated by community members, provide aid for food, housing, rent, basic needs in emergency situations.
Friends of the MacTier Library	Townships of Georgian Bay, Muskoka Lakes and Seguin Township	$1,000	Funding two literary events. Indigenous author will share the 'art of storytelling’ in two workshops, one with adults and one with children and youth.
Imagination Library Muskoka West and Gravenhurst	Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Wahta, Bala, possibly Port Carling	$1,300	Expansion of Dolly Parton's Imagination Libraries providing free books to children in Muskoka.
Muskoka Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition (MAHT Coalition)	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$1,755	Prevention initiative to equip Grade 9 students across Muskoka with the digital and social skills to prevent human trafficking. Recognizing that teenagers are primary targets for human trafficking, this project provides delivery of potentially life-saving information.
Muskoka Printmaker Collective	Huntsville, Dorset	$2,000	Delivery of printmaking workshops that will be free for participants to attend. Targeting participants who may not have means/access to otherwise attend, artists will teach classes such as Lino Block, Dry Point Intaglio, Silkscreen Printing, and Letter Writing.
Sewing Camp	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$900	Providing the materials for sewing workshops and camps to the Muskoka community, schools, and libraries at no charge to participants.
Total PIF		$11,793

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Camp Winston Foundation	Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Bracebridge	$5,000	Grandfamily Christmas Camp initiative to serve additional kinship-care families in Muskoka. Community-based holiday program designed specifically for grandparents raising grandchildren, a population that frequently experiences financial hardship, caregiving stress, and social isolation. Many of the children being raised in kinship-care arrangements also live with neurodevelopmental challenges or trauma-related needs.
Corner Lighthouse Food Bank and Community Hub	Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Novar, Dwight, Port Sydney, Utterson, Allensville	$5,000	Purchase non-food items that are essential to quality of life for people living in poverty and assisting with transportation to and from Food Bank and Community Hub.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty	Gravenhurst and area	$5,000	Weekly Healthy Snacks for Children initiative. This initiative is an expansion of the Healthy Summer Snacks for Children initiative that was launched in July 2025. The initiative is designed to provide children with nutritious, ready to eat snack bags, containing items that supplement their daily food intake when access to school-based nutrition programs is unavailable (i.e. the summer months).
Hospice Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Port Carling, Bala, Mactier, Torrence, Baysville, Port Sydney, Utterson, Wahta, Moose Deer	$2,500	To offer a Practical Caregiver Training Program which is a comprehensive, evidence-informed initiative designed to equip family and informal caregivers with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to provide safe, compassionate, and informed care.
Lake of Bays Curling & Bocce Club	Lake of Bays, Baysville	$4,238	Free certified First Aid and CPR training to strengthen safety, preparedness and community resilience within the rural area. Equipping community members and volunteers ensuring they are trained to respond to medical emergencies.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	The Step Up Program is designed to address essential needs that go beyond food assistance such as basic personal care and household hygiene products not covered by social assistance or food benefit programs.
Mission Committee of Knox Presbyterian Church	Bracebridge	$3,500	Emergency Food boxes containing nutritious non-perishable food, toiletries, household cleaning supplies, eggs, frozen vegetables, potatoes, and $10 gift card to those in need. The desire to provide fresh produce resulted in the Community Garden Program needing seeds, supplies, and manure.
Muskoka Arts & Crafts Inc.	Bracebridge, Muskoka Lakes, Huntsville, Gravenhurst	$4,000	Artist-led free workshops aimed at youth. All materials will be provided, making participation accessible to all ages and skill levels. Hosted at Chapel Gallery and pop-up sessions throughout Muskoka, this program partners with different not-for-profit organizations each month to reach new and diverse segments of the community.
Muskoka Indigenous Friends Cultural Centre	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville	$2,500	Ribbon Skirt Making Workshop providing a healing activity supporting the Muskoka urban Indigenous community’s cultural needs while bridging reconciliation with non-Indigenous allies. Workshop will coincide with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Muskoka Women's Shelters and Services	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$4,357	A free three day/two night retreat for girls ages 12-15 who have experienced and/or witnessed gender based violence. The weekend will include therapy, yoga, beading, and topics to rebuild and strengthen.
Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge, Baysville, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Walker’s Point, Bala, Port Carling, Glen Orchard, Melissa, Vankoughnet, Milford Bay, Mactier, Port Sydney, Dorset, Windermere, Dwight	$5,000	The Beds for Muskoka Kids program will address the need for beds, mattresses and bedding for children. Keeping children/youth as close to their family unit as possible, they are at times living in or placed in homes that meet every other requirement but lack appropriate sleeping arrangements, leading to instability and discomfort during what can be an already challenging period in their lives. This initiative ensures they have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in during their emergency placements.
The Salvation Army Huntsville Food Bank & Family Services	Huntsville, Lake of Bays - Baysville, Dwight, Utterson, Port Sydney.	$5,000	Initiative designed to improve access to nutritious food for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity in Huntsville and surrounding areas. Program will support the purchase of additional fresh/healthy food items to supplement the food bank.
The Salvation Army South Muskoka Ministries	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst	$3,000	State-of-the-art mobile kitchen brings a healthy meal with lots of heart to the community. Volunteers facilitate the meal and ensure there is a space for friends and neighbours to share in conversation and good food.
Total CE		$54,095

2026 Applications Now Closed!

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Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Program. This year over 40 applications were received!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.
Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Program. This year over 40 applications were received!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.
2026 Community Grant Program - Applications are open!

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CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

The District of Muskoka is excited to announce the launch of the 2026 Muskoka Community Grant program. The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting new and existing community-funded programs. Two grant opportunities are available again this year, the Pay It Forward (PIF) grant and the Community Enhancement Fund (CE) grant. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address gaps in service and meeting the needs of our most vulnerable.
How to Apply:
One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.
You can complete an application at the following link: 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Application.
The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.
Complete an Application Today! Deadline for submissions is March 13, 2026 at 4:00pm!
The District of Muskoka is excited to announce the launch of the 2026 Muskoka Community Grant program. The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting new and existing community-funded programs. Two grant opportunities are available again this year, the Pay It Forward (PIF) grant and the Community Enhancement Fund (CE) grant. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address gaps in service and meeting the needs of our most vulnerable.
How to Apply:
One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.
You can complete an application at the following link: 2026 Muskoka Community Grant Application.
The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.
Complete an Application Today! Deadline for submissions is March 13, 2026 at 4:00pm!

2025 Muskoka Community Grant Recipients Announced

The District of Muskoka is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Muskoka Community Grant Program, which provides funding for local projects that strengthen the community and support Muskoka’s most vulnerable residents.

This year, $65,105 in funding has been awarded to 20 recipients through two grant streams: the Pay It Forward (PIF) program and the Community Enhancement (CE) Fund.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community

Building community capacity and leadership

Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need

Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction

Food security

Housing and living conditions

Education and training opportunities

Volunteer and job development

Citizen engagement

Funded projects include initiatives focused on social connection, food security, housing stability, and community well-being. Successful Projects are listed in the chart below.

The District extends its thanks to all applicants for their commitment to building up their communities and making a difference.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Corner Lighthouse	Huntsville and area	$2,500	Empowers individuals and families facing hardships by providing the foundational support they need to achieve independence by providing them with food.
Family Council, Muskoka Landing	Huntsville and area	$1,000	A celebration of cultural diversity and inclusion. Event for seniors, youth, and all ages, celebrating cultures, foods and inclusion.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	Provides emergency humanitarian aid services in a timely fashion when other programming may not be able to support the individuals.
Friends of the Mactier Library	Mactier, Georgian Bay, Muskoka Lakes and Seguin.	$1,000	Two workshops to take place with local Parry Sound (Wasauksing First Nation) author Waubgeshig Rice. There will be one hands on literary event for children and one for adults. Waubgeshig Rice will share his ‘art of storytelling’.
Loan Cupboard	Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	The program supports community health and well-being by ensuring individuals have access to the required equipment and assistive devices that keep them safe in their home. Supporting low-income individuals and those in need.
Meals on Hold	Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Port Carling, Georgian Bay, Minett, Wahta First Nation, Moose Deer Point, Bala, Torrance, Mactier	$2,500	Group has been sourcing and providing meat through a local butcher to provide quality meals for food insecure individuals, as well as community programs such as Alex's Place, West Muskoka Food Bank, Interval house and Wahta Mohawks community food bank.
Sewing Camp	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Dwight, Port Sydney	$1,000	Free volunteer run sewing program teaching skills in communities in Muskoka. Projects include inclusive sewing workshops to those in schools, rehab, children with Autism, LGBTQ+, transgender community, library, Indigenous programs.

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Enliven Cancer Care	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Dwight, and online	$3,060	Support and provide tools to families dealing with a cancer diagnosis, move forward and engage in supportive opportunities while navigating cancer journey.
FaithWorks Ministries	Gravenhurst	$3,300	Visiting Seniors in their homes as well as encourage them to get out and socialize. Sustain and grow volunteer base and increase the activity and spirits of older seniors in Muskoka.
Food4Kids-Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	Summers Without Hunger. Support food-insecure children across Muskoka during summer vacation, remove barriers associated with accessing and preparing healthy food.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.)	Gravenhurst	$5,000	Offering children healthy food (during a time when nutritious school-based food programs, such as the Breakfast Program, are not available.) - two (2) snack bags assembled and delivered by G.A.P. volunteers each week in July and August.
Hospice Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Muskoka Lakes	$4,500	Caregiver Education. Provide training to caregivers so that they know how to care for someone who is dying.
Lake of Bays Curling & Bocce Club	Lake of Bays, Baysville, Dorset, Newholm	$1,245	One day event to invite, welcome, teach, and play bocce. All community members are welcome of all ages and abilities.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	Step Up Initiative. The provision of personal care products, contribute more to the health, well-being and esteem of users.
Mission Committee of Knox Presbyterian Church	Bracebridge, and rest of Muskoka	$3,000	Emergency Food Box and Community Garden Programs. Funds to supplement program and ensure they can continue throughout the year.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Meals for the Manna Food Bank. Pre-cooked, packaged meals once a month to the Manna Food Bank.

Ryde Community Co-operative Inc.	Gravenhurst, Ryde, Bracebridge	$2,000	Heritage Day Celebration addressing a demonstrated community need for intergenerational fun and socializing. Promoting strong community participation and support, reliable volunteers all ages who step up to help.
Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Gravenhurst, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, (and all over Muskoka)	$5,000	Beds for Muskoka Kids. Providing beds, mattresses, and bedding for children. Ensuring children have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in during emergency placements and in their family homes.
The Children's Foundation of Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Kilworthy, Dwight, Port Carling	$5,000	Send a Kid to Camp 2025! Provide funding for both residential and day camp experiences for under-resourced children and youth living in the Muskoka District.
The Salvation Army South Muskoka Ministries	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville (and all over Muskoka)	$5,000	Emergency meals food truck service.

This year, $65,105 in funding has been awarded to 20 recipients through two grant streams: the Pay It Forward (PIF) program and the Community Enhancement (CE) Fund.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community

Building community capacity and leadership

Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need

Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction

Food security

Housing and living conditions

Education and training opportunities

Volunteer and job development

Citizen engagement

Funded projects include initiatives focused on social connection, food security, housing stability, and community well-being. Successful Projects are listed in the chart below.

The District extends its thanks to all applicants for their commitment to building up their communities and making a difference.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Corner Lighthouse	Huntsville and area	$2,500	Empowers individuals and families facing hardships by providing the foundational support they need to achieve independence by providing them with food.
Family Council, Muskoka Landing	Huntsville and area	$1,000	A celebration of cultural diversity and inclusion. Event for seniors, youth, and all ages, celebrating cultures, foods and inclusion.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	Provides emergency humanitarian aid services in a timely fashion when other programming may not be able to support the individuals.
Friends of the Mactier Library	Mactier, Georgian Bay, Muskoka Lakes and Seguin.	$1,000	Two workshops to take place with local Parry Sound (Wasauksing First Nation) author Waubgeshig Rice. There will be one hands on literary event for children and one for adults. Waubgeshig Rice will share his ‘art of storytelling’.
Loan Cupboard	Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	The program supports community health and well-being by ensuring individuals have access to the required equipment and assistive devices that keep them safe in their home. Supporting low-income individuals and those in need.
Meals on Hold	Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Port Carling, Georgian Bay, Minett, Wahta First Nation, Moose Deer Point, Bala, Torrance, Mactier	$2,500	Group has been sourcing and providing meat through a local butcher to provide quality meals for food insecure individuals, as well as community programs such as Alex's Place, West Muskoka Food Bank, Interval house and Wahta Mohawks community food bank.
Sewing Camp	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Dwight, Port Sydney	$1,000	Free volunteer run sewing program teaching skills in communities in Muskoka. Projects include inclusive sewing workshops to those in schools, rehab, children with Autism, LGBTQ+, transgender community, library, Indigenous programs.

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant

Organization	Area Served	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Enliven Cancer Care	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Dwight, and online	$3,060	Support and provide tools to families dealing with a cancer diagnosis, move forward and engage in supportive opportunities while navigating cancer journey.
FaithWorks Ministries	Gravenhurst	$3,300	Visiting Seniors in their homes as well as encourage them to get out and socialize. Sustain and grow volunteer base and increase the activity and spirits of older seniors in Muskoka.
Food4Kids-Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	Summers Without Hunger. Support food-insecure children across Muskoka during summer vacation, remove barriers associated with accessing and preparing healthy food.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.)	Gravenhurst	$5,000	Offering children healthy food (during a time when nutritious school-based food programs, such as the Breakfast Program, are not available.) - two (2) snack bags assembled and delivered by G.A.P. volunteers each week in July and August.
Hospice Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Muskoka Lakes	$4,500	Caregiver Education. Provide training to caregivers so that they know how to care for someone who is dying.
Lake of Bays Curling & Bocce Club	Lake of Bays, Baysville, Dorset, Newholm	$1,245	One day event to invite, welcome, teach, and play bocce. All community members are welcome of all ages and abilities.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes	$5,000	Step Up Initiative. The provision of personal care products, contribute more to the health, well-being and esteem of users.
Mission Committee of Knox Presbyterian Church	Bracebridge, and rest of Muskoka	$3,000	Emergency Food Box and Community Garden Programs. Funds to supplement program and ensure they can continue throughout the year.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Meals for the Manna Food Bank. Pre-cooked, packaged meals once a month to the Manna Food Bank.

Ryde Community Co-operative Inc.	Gravenhurst, Ryde, Bracebridge	$2,000	Heritage Day Celebration addressing a demonstrated community need for intergenerational fun and socializing. Promoting strong community participation and support, reliable volunteers all ages who step up to help.
Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge, Huntsville, Gravenhurst, Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, (and all over Muskoka)	$5,000	Beds for Muskoka Kids. Providing beds, mattresses, and bedding for children. Ensuring children have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in during emergency placements and in their family homes.
The Children's Foundation of Muskoka	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes, Kilworthy, Dwight, Port Carling	$5,000	Send a Kid to Camp 2025! Provide funding for both residential and day camp experiences for under-resourced children and youth living in the Muskoka District.
The Salvation Army South Muskoka Ministries	Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville (and all over Muskoka)	$5,000	Emergency meals food truck service.

2025 Applications Now Closed!

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Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the 2025 Muskoka Community Grant Program. This year over 40 applications were received!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.
Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the 2025 Muskoka Community Grant Program. This year over 40 applications were received!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.
2025 Muskoka Community Grants - Applications Open!

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CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

The District of Muskoka is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Muskoka Community Grant program. The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting community-funded programs. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address the needs of our most vulnerable. Two grant opportunities are available in 2025, the Pay It Forward (PIF) grant and the Community Enhancement Fund (CE) grant.

How to Apply:
One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.
You can complete an application at the following link: 2025 Muskoka Community Grant Application.
The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.

Complete an Application Today! Deadline for submissions is March 21, 2025 at 4:00pm.

The District of Muskoka is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Muskoka Community Grant program. The Community Grant Program encourages community collaboration through assisting community-funded programs. Funds are awarded to local grassroots and community non-profits to support projects and events that address the needs of our most vulnerable. Two grant opportunities are available in 2025, the Pay It Forward (PIF) grant and the Community Enhancement Fund (CE) grant.

How to Apply:
One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.
You can complete an application at the following link: 2025 Muskoka Community Grant Application.
The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.

Complete an Application Today! Deadline for submissions is March 21, 2025 at 4:00pm.

2024 Grant Recipients Announced

July 15, 2024 (Muskoka, ON) – The District of Muskoka launched the 2024 Muskoka Community Grant Program in March of this year which offered grant opportunities through the Pay it Forward Grant Program and Community Enhancement Fund.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community

Building community capacity and leadership

Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need

Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction

Food security

Housing and living conditions

Education and training opportunities

Volunteer and job development

Citizen engagement

Staff were pleased to see a similar number of applications as last year, confirming that the numbers have bounced back after lower numbers during the pandemic. Community Grants received 48 applications in 2024. Of the 2024 applications, 71% were for the Community Enhancement Grant, and 29% were for the Pay It Forward Grant.

The key themes that emerged this year were food security, basic needs, community support, well-being, and transportation. Staff noted that the needs in the community have continued to increase, which is why they brought two options to the Community and Planning Services Committee. Option 1, proceed with awarding the funds in the approved budget, or Option 2 seek more funds which would allow an increase in the number of organizations receiving funds and increase partial funding amounts for many of the successful applicants. Council approved Option 2.

Grant Recipients Announced

A total of 25 applications were awarded funding this year, amounting to grants of $97,525 being distributed to successful applicants.

Organization	Area	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant
Building 2SLGBTQ+ Community in Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$855	Monthly meetings for young adults aged 18-29 who are connected to the 2SLGBTQ+ community hosted by a therapist/community facilitator.
Family Council, Muskoka Landing	Huntsville	$1,000	An indoor 1-day celebration of cultural diversity and inclusion including a festival of music, dance and food to showcase cultural diversity.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,250	A humanitarian aid service providing ordinary household items to individuals and families in need.
Friends of the Mactier Library	Georgian Bay	$765	Graphic Novel and Writing Boot Camp aimed at children and teens.
Mamas on Missions (M.O.M)	Bracebridge Huntsville	$2,300	Monthly or weekly supportive community for mothers to come together, connect, and recharge with activities, networking and guest speakers. Child care is provided to lessen the barriers.
Muskoka Purseveres	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,000	Purses are filled with essential items and toiletries and distributed to those in the community.
MYVoice: Muskoka Youth Voice	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,500	MyVoice is a youth-led committee under the guidance of MiND AID. Striving to give youth within Muskoka a voice that will be heard, generating real change in the mental wellness systems that serve them.
Sewing Camp	Huntsville	$1,480	Sewing programs offered free of charge to children and adults in Muskoka.

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant
Alzheimer Society of Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Initiative is an effort to increase and retain much needed volunteers for the increased programs offered throughout Muskoka.
Canadian Red Cross	Gravenhurst	$6,223	Kits for Tents supports displaced individuals in Muskoka by providing them with essential hygiene kits, care packages to improve situation while residing in tents over summer months.
Community YWCA of Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$2,900	Girlz Unplugged is a 12 week school based program for girls and those identifying as female in grades 5 to 8 at participating Muskoka schools.
Enliven Cancer Care	Bracebridge Huntsville Gravenhurst	$2,520	Allowing Nia program to expand service area. Nia is a form of movement that those with cancer find truly healing.
FaithWorks Ministries	Gravenhurst	$2,955	Addressing chronic loneliness amongst older senior population by providing routine visits of 20-30 minutes. Volunteers will bring prearranged beverages etc.
Food4Kids Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$4,800	Expanding distribution sites, from our current site in Huntsville to a sites in Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. $60/mth - 20 kids.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.)	Gravenhurst	$5,000	Funds toward 100+ families registered in transportation program. Household can receive up to $100/mth taxi cards.
Knox Presbyterian Church, Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$2,500	Emergency Food Box Program continues as food insecurity has remained heightened by increased costs of food, housing, utilities, mental health issues.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc.	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Providing personal care products and supporting the purchase of personal care products.
March of Dimes Canada	Bracebridge Huntsville	$1,765	Deliver Hospital Peer Connections Program to new stroke survivors in hospital, providing support, hope, education, and connection to real experiences as early as possible in patients’ recovery after stroke.
MiND-AID	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Assessing clients who need therapeutic support, determine needs, professional recommendations of psychological or psychiatric assessments, suitability for publicly funded options, access to benefits or funding programs they may qualify for.
Muskoka Indigenous Friendship Centre	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Muskoka Lakes	$4,298	Improving the quality of life for urban Indigenous living in Muskoka through community directed programming and services in 5 locations.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society – Muskoka Region	Bracebridge	$4,915	Mobile Animal Sterilization Hospital (MASH) clinics. Pet owners who would not be able to afford spay/neuter services will be the focus of these services.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Providing good, home cooked meals to the Manna Food Bank.
Simcoe/Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Beds for Muskoka Kids program will provide beds, mattresses, and bedding ensuring they have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in.
The Meeting Place, Centre for Growth and Healing	Bracebridge Gravenhurst	$2,000	12-weeks of programing facilitated by professional therapists and volunteers; including psychoeducational, art-led and therapeutic engagement. Nutritious meal offered. Geared towards women and trauma and starts with a nutritious meal
The Salvation Army Huntsville Food Bank & Family Services	Huntsville Lake of Bays	$10,000	Grant will be used to purchase non-perishables, fresh vegetables, and healthy proteins to be distributed through food bank to those less fortunate in the community.

Pay It Forward (PIF) Grants offer up to $2500 to projects that fulfill one or more of PIF’s strategic goals including:

Supporting a healthy, vibrant community

Building community capacity and leadership

Creatively problem-solve to fill a community need

Fostering volunteerism and encouraging community engagement

Community Enhancement (CE) Grants offer up to $10,000 to non-profit organizations. Grants are awarded for projects that address one or more of the CE grants’ strategic needs such as:

Poverty reduction

Food security

Housing and living conditions

Education and training opportunities

Volunteer and job development

Citizen engagement

Grant Recipients Announced

A total of 25 applications were awarded funding this year, amounting to grants of $97,525 being distributed to successful applicants.

Organization	Area	Funding Allocated	Project Description
Pay It Forward (PIF) Grant
Building 2SLGBTQ+ Community in Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$855	Monthly meetings for young adults aged 18-29 who are connected to the 2SLGBTQ+ community hosted by a therapist/community facilitator.
Family Council, Muskoka Landing	Huntsville	$1,000	An indoor 1-day celebration of cultural diversity and inclusion including a festival of music, dance and food to showcase cultural diversity.
Free Stuff 4 Daily Needs	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,250	A humanitarian aid service providing ordinary household items to individuals and families in need.
Friends of the Mactier Library	Georgian Bay	$765	Graphic Novel and Writing Boot Camp aimed at children and teens.
Mamas on Missions (M.O.M)	Bracebridge Huntsville	$2,300	Monthly or weekly supportive community for mothers to come together, connect, and recharge with activities, networking and guest speakers. Child care is provided to lessen the barriers.
Muskoka Purseveres	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,000	Purses are filled with essential items and toiletries and distributed to those in the community.
MYVoice: Muskoka Youth Voice	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$1,500	MyVoice is a youth-led committee under the guidance of MiND AID. Striving to give youth within Muskoka a voice that will be heard, generating real change in the mental wellness systems that serve them.
Sewing Camp	Huntsville	$1,480	Sewing programs offered free of charge to children and adults in Muskoka.

Community Enhancement (CE) Grant
Alzheimer Society of Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$2,500	Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Initiative is an effort to increase and retain much needed volunteers for the increased programs offered throughout Muskoka.
Canadian Red Cross	Gravenhurst	$6,223	Kits for Tents supports displaced individuals in Muskoka by providing them with essential hygiene kits, care packages to improve situation while residing in tents over summer months.
Community YWCA of Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$2,900	Girlz Unplugged is a 12 week school based program for girls and those identifying as female in grades 5 to 8 at participating Muskoka schools.
Enliven Cancer Care	Bracebridge Huntsville Gravenhurst	$2,520	Allowing Nia program to expand service area. Nia is a form of movement that those with cancer find truly healing.
FaithWorks Ministries	Gravenhurst	$2,955	Addressing chronic loneliness amongst older senior population by providing routine visits of 20-30 minutes. Volunteers will bring prearranged beverages etc.
Food4Kids Muskoka	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$4,800	Expanding distribution sites, from our current site in Huntsville to a sites in Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. $60/mth - 20 kids.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty (G.A.P.)	Gravenhurst	$5,000	Funds toward 100+ families registered in transportation program. Household can receive up to $100/mth taxi cards.
Knox Presbyterian Church, Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$2,500	Emergency Food Box Program continues as food insecurity has remained heightened by increased costs of food, housing, utilities, mental health issues.
Manna Food Bank of Bracebridge Inc.	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Providing personal care products and supporting the purchase of personal care products.
March of Dimes Canada	Bracebridge Huntsville	$1,765	Deliver Hospital Peer Connections Program to new stroke survivors in hospital, providing support, hope, education, and connection to real experiences as early as possible in patients’ recovery after stroke.
MiND-AID	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Assessing clients who need therapeutic support, determine needs, professional recommendations of psychological or psychiatric assessments, suitability for publicly funded options, access to benefits or funding programs they may qualify for.
Muskoka Indigenous Friendship Centre	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Muskoka Lakes	$4,298	Improving the quality of life for urban Indigenous living in Muskoka through community directed programming and services in 5 locations.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society – Muskoka Region	Bracebridge	$4,915	Mobile Animal Sterilization Hospital (MASH) clinics. Pet owners who would not be able to afford spay/neuter services will be the focus of these services.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Providing good, home cooked meals to the Manna Food Bank.
Simcoe/Muskoka Family Connexions	Bracebridge Gravenhurst Huntsville Georgian Bay Lake of Bays Muskoka Lakes	$10,000	Beds for Muskoka Kids program will provide beds, mattresses, and bedding ensuring they have a comfortable and dignified environment to sleep in.
The Meeting Place, Centre for Growth and Healing	Bracebridge Gravenhurst	$2,000	12-weeks of programing facilitated by professional therapists and volunteers; including psychoeducational, art-led and therapeutic engagement. Nutritious meal offered. Geared towards women and trauma and starts with a nutritious meal
The Salvation Army Huntsville Food Bank & Family Services	Huntsville Lake of Bays	$10,000	Grant will be used to purchase non-perishables, fresh vegetables, and healthy proteins to be distributed through food bank to those less fortunate in the community.

2024 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications for Pay it Forward and the Community Enhancement Fund Now Open!

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CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

We are excited to launch the 2024 Muskoka Community Grant Program!

Information about the Pay it Forward and Community Enhancement Grants are available in the Grant Guideline document.

How to Apply:

One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.

You can complete an application at the following link: 2024 Muskoka Community Grant Application or access the application through the Applications and Reporting tab.

The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.

Applications close Friday, March 22, 2024.

We are excited to launch the 2024 Muskoka Community Grant Program!

Information about the Pay it Forward and Community Enhancement Grants are available in the Grant Guideline document.

How to Apply:

One application form has been created for both grant opportunities. You will be guided through the appropriate grant stream as you complete the application.

You can complete an application at the following link: 2024 Muskoka Community Grant Application or access the application through the Applications and Reporting tab.

The grant application guide and budget worksheet can be found in the document section on the right hand side of your computer monitor or scroll down on a mobile device.

Applications close Friday, March 22, 2024.

2023 Grant Recipients Announced!

We are excited to announce the recipients of this year's Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Grants!

A total of 47 applications were received – a 59% increase since 2022!

“We were so pleased to see the resurgence in the number of applications received for this year’s grant program,” said Arfona Zwiers, Commissioner of Community and Planning Services. “In recent years, we had observed a decline in the volume of applications, which we have attributed to the COVID-19 Pandemic. This notion was further reinforced by a key theme that emerged in this year's applications - the rebuilding of community supports and programs which had been disrupted by COVID restrictions. These applications show us that our community has a renewed sense of hope and the resiliency to overcome adversity. Muskoka is bouncing back.”

Read the full news release here: https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/news/a-renewed-sense-of-hope-for-muskoka-2023-muskoka-community-grant-recipients-announced.aspx

A list of successful grant recipients and projects can be viewed below:

Organization	Area	Funding Received	Project Description
Pay It Forward
Planting Community Seeds	Lake of Bays, Huntsville	$2,500	Providing starter gardening kits, gardening workshops and ongoing support to new gardeners to support food security.
Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums	Huntsville	$2,500	Purchasing new band equipment so that band can continue free performances at legions, seniors homes and schools; and offer free music lessons.
Sewing Camp	Across Muskoka	$2,500	Providing free sewing education and workshops.
Free Stuff for Daily Needs	Across Muskoka (Gravenhurst focus)	$2,500	Providing urgent support to community members with practical needs.
Labyrinths in Libraries	Across Muskoka	$1,250	Partnering with local libraries to make handheld labyrinths, which support mental wellness, available for borrowing and providing labyrinth education.
Community Enhancement
Bracebridge Out of the Cold	Bracebridge	$4,000	Expanding the Out of the Cold Community Dinner to a Hybrid approach to reach isolated residents.
Muskoka Indigenous Friendship Centre	All of Muskoka	$6,163	Expanding Indigenous cultural programming across Muskoka.
Muskoka Shoebox Project	All of Muskoka	$1,250	Providing essential and gift filled shoeboxes to women in the community who are experiencing housing insecurity.
Dorset Community Partnership Fund	Lake of Bays	$2,500	Funding to support the pharmacy and emergency food assistance program.
Ryde Community Co- operative Inc.	Gravenhurst	$2,000	Funding to support social and wellness programming for all ages.
Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere	Georgian Bay	$4,725	Revitalizing the community gardens in Port Severn and Mactier and providing educational workshops.

West Muskoka Food Bank	Muskoka Lakes	$8,000	Purchasing food and other essentials for foodbank distribution.
Elder Abuse Prevention Muskoka	Across Muskoka	$5,000	Providing cell phones, tablets and subsides to isolated seniors and offering technology literacy training.
Mind-Aid Muskoka	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$8,000	Offering access to specialized mental health services to at risk youth.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Muskoka	Across Muskoka	$2,500	Developing a “Money Smart Kids” program for children to learn basic skills for financial literacy.
Knox Presbyterian Church Bracebridge Mission Committee	Bracebridge	$2,500	Continuing their emergency food box and community garden program to support food security.
Muskoka Seniors	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$2,000	Hosting the first annual “Muskoka Healthy Living Expo” to build awareness and accessibility around senior supportive services.
Hospice Muskoka	Gravenhurst, Bracebridge	$3,000	Offering the “Healing Hearts” program to provide grief support to children who are experiencing the loss of a loved-one.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty	Gravenhurst	$8,000	Providing grocery gift cards to neighbours to support food security.
Muskoka Family Focus and Children's Place	Across Muskoka	$6,000	Bringing “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library” to Muskoka – a book gifting program to support literacy in children under 5 years old.
St. Vincent de Paul Society. St. Mary's Conference	Huntsville	$8,000	Collaborating with the Muskoka Good Food Co-op to provide fresh produce to residents who access their foodbank.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Supplying health pre-cooked meals monthly to the Manna Foodbank for distribution.
The Table Soup Kitchen Foundation	Huntsville	$4,000	Supporting a community garden project and fresh food seminars to address food insecurity.

We are excited to announce the recipients of this year's Pay It Forward and Community Enhancement Grants!

A total of 47 applications were received – a 59% increase since 2022!

Read the full news release here: https://www.muskoka.on.ca/en/news/a-renewed-sense-of-hope-for-muskoka-2023-muskoka-community-grant-recipients-announced.aspx

A list of successful grant recipients and projects can be viewed below:

Organization	Area	Funding Received	Project Description
Pay It Forward
Planting Community Seeds	Lake of Bays, Huntsville	$2,500	Providing starter gardening kits, gardening workshops and ongoing support to new gardeners to support food security.
Cameron of Lochiel Pipes and Drums	Huntsville	$2,500	Purchasing new band equipment so that band can continue free performances at legions, seniors homes and schools; and offer free music lessons.
Sewing Camp	Across Muskoka	$2,500	Providing free sewing education and workshops.
Free Stuff for Daily Needs	Across Muskoka (Gravenhurst focus)	$2,500	Providing urgent support to community members with practical needs.
Labyrinths in Libraries	Across Muskoka	$1,250	Partnering with local libraries to make handheld labyrinths, which support mental wellness, available for borrowing and providing labyrinth education.
Community Enhancement
Bracebridge Out of the Cold	Bracebridge	$4,000	Expanding the Out of the Cold Community Dinner to a Hybrid approach to reach isolated residents.
Muskoka Indigenous Friendship Centre	All of Muskoka	$6,163	Expanding Indigenous cultural programming across Muskoka.
Muskoka Shoebox Project	All of Muskoka	$1,250	Providing essential and gift filled shoeboxes to women in the community who are experiencing housing insecurity.
Dorset Community Partnership Fund	Lake of Bays	$2,500	Funding to support the pharmacy and emergency food assistance program.
Ryde Community Co- operative Inc.	Gravenhurst	$2,000	Funding to support social and wellness programming for all ages.
Georgian Bay Mnidoo Gamii Biosphere	Georgian Bay	$4,725	Revitalizing the community gardens in Port Severn and Mactier and providing educational workshops.

West Muskoka Food Bank	Muskoka Lakes	$8,000	Purchasing food and other essentials for foodbank distribution.
Elder Abuse Prevention Muskoka	Across Muskoka	$5,000	Providing cell phones, tablets and subsides to isolated seniors and offering technology literacy training.
Mind-Aid Muskoka	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$8,000	Offering access to specialized mental health services to at risk youth.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Muskoka	Across Muskoka	$2,500	Developing a “Money Smart Kids” program for children to learn basic skills for financial literacy.
Knox Presbyterian Church Bracebridge Mission Committee	Bracebridge	$2,500	Continuing their emergency food box and community garden program to support food security.
Muskoka Seniors	Huntsville, Lake of Bays	$2,000	Hosting the first annual “Muskoka Healthy Living Expo” to build awareness and accessibility around senior supportive services.
Hospice Muskoka	Gravenhurst, Bracebridge	$3,000	Offering the “Healing Hearts” program to provide grief support to children who are experiencing the loss of a loved-one.
Gravenhurst Against Poverty	Gravenhurst	$8,000	Providing grocery gift cards to neighbours to support food security.
Muskoka Family Focus and Children's Place	Across Muskoka	$6,000	Bringing “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library” to Muskoka – a book gifting program to support literacy in children under 5 years old.
St. Vincent de Paul Society. St. Mary's Conference	Huntsville	$8,000	Collaborating with the Muskoka Good Food Co-op to provide fresh produce to residents who access their foodbank.
Rotary Club of Bracebridge	Bracebridge	$5,000	Supplying health pre-cooked meals monthly to the Manna Foodbank for distribution.
The Table Soup Kitchen Foundation	Huntsville	$4,000	Supporting a community garden project and fresh food seminars to address food insecurity.

Community Applications Now Closed

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CLOSED: This discussion has concluded.

Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the Muskoka Community Grant Program - we received 48 applications!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results in mid-May. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.
Thank you to everyone who submitted an application to the Muskoka Community Grant Program - we received 48 applications!
Applications are now under review and applicants will be notified via email of the results in mid-May. A recipient list will be posted to this page once all applicants have been contacted.

Page last updated: 23 Apr 2026, 09:02 PM

Muskoka Community Grant Program

2026 Muskoka Community Grant Recipients Announced

2026 Applications Now Closed!

2026 Community Grant Program - Applications are open!

2025 Muskoka Community Grant Recipients Announced

2025 Applications Now Closed!

2025 Muskoka Community Grants - Applications Open!

2024 Grant Recipients Announced

2024 Muskoka Community Grant Program - Applications for Pay it Forward and the Community Enhancement Fund Now Open!

2023 Grant Recipients Announced!

Community Applications Now Closed

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