in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
December 11, 2025
Photo (left to right): Mike Walker, Jenny Hanley, MPP Paul Vickers
On Friday, December 5, MPP Paul Vickers formally congratulated representatives from The Hanley Institute on the work they’d done after receiving two grants in 2024 totalling $251,100 from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The OTF grants awarded were used to support the creation of a new kitchen space that will significantly enhance its community programming and services, and to develop a program that helps young people develop stronger social, emotional and leadership skills. At the event, the group also officially unveiled its newly renovated kitchen facilities.
“Equipping our youth with practical life skills is very important,” said Vickers. “The Hanley Institute is a beacon of opportunity for youth in the Grey Highlands region, and I know the new community kitchen facility will not only teach culinary skills, but provide opportunities for fellowship and mentorship that will make a difference in their lives.”
Awarded in the summer of 2024, the $176,000 Capital grant from OTF was used to help with the costs of renovating Laura’s Kitchen by installing a fully-equipped, accessible kitchen at the 13 Spring Street location in Flesherton. Since completing the work, the Hanley Institute has been able to offer a wide range of food-related programs, including cooking classes, meal preparation for those in need, food literacy workshops, and more.
The group also received a $75,100 Seed grant in the fall of 2024, which for the skills-building program for local youth. Funds from this grant were used to helps with staffing costs for two program roles, as well as developing a curriculum, and helping with the costs of providing nutritional snacks
“We are incredibly grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for investing in both projects,” said Jenny Hanley, Executive Director of The Hanley Institute. “This new kitchen will be a game-changer for our organization and the youth and community we serve. It will allow us to expand our outreach, provide vital services, and bring people together through food.”
Construction on the kitchen was completed in September and cooking classes have already begun. The project will help promote healthy eating and foster social connection within the community.
The Hanley Institute serves youth in the Grey Highlands and Southgate area. Its mission is to support children and youth through connection, education, compassion, and empowerment. Helping youth build life skills, confidence, and make positive choices.
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 nearly $105M into 732 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.
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