Accessibility upgrades to the Fonthill Legion have officially been completed, with local politicians and legion members on hand for an official celebration. The project includes a fully accessible front entrance to Lloyd King Hall at Branch 613.
The project was supported by $148,900 in funding from the province of Ontario, received through a capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. The funding announcement was originally made back in February 2024.
On hand for the celebration were Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, Pelham Mayor Marvin Junkin, Regional Councillor Wayne Olson, and Jim Garner, First Vice-President and Poppy Chair of Branch 613 of the Royal Canadian Legion.
The grant supported repairs to the building’s exterior, which was rapidly aging, as well as funding for the creation of a brand-new accessible main entrance.
“Branch 613 is an important service organization in our community serving veterans and their families, as well as so many others,” said Oosterhoff. “Our government – through the Ontario Trillium Foundation – is proud to support these important upgrades, including the construction of a more accessible front entrance to the Legion Hall.”
“I congratulate Branch 613 and thank them for the vital contributions they make to our local community.”
Garner shared his thoughts on the occasion as well.
“Our Legion has been a part of the Town of Pelham for over sixty years,” noted Garner. “While our mandate of supporting and honouring veterans has not changed, our purpose has expanded and now includes supporting seniors, youth groups and the community in which we live. Branch 613 has become a community hub, hosting several events and activities throughout the year, as well as providing a wide array of low or no cost programs and services to veterans and the community at large.”
“Participation in these programs and services will only increase now that our building has a fully accessible entrance.”
Junkin spoke about the crucial role the Legion plays in the Pelham community, particularly in helping seniors.
“The Town of Pelham is very fortunate to have such a hard-working group from our local Legion that serves the whole community,” said Junkin. “From the countless number of meals served to the support for local veterans, our Legion’s impact on Pelham residents has been very positive. This front entrance upgrade will enable the great work of Branch 613 to continue.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario and is one of Canada’s leading community granting foundations. According to the provincial government, the Ontario Trillium Foundation invested just under $105 million in 732 community projects and partnerships last year.
Jay Goldberg is the Canadian Affairs Manager at the Consumer Choice Center. He previously served as the Ontario Director at the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and a policy fellow at the Munk School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Jay holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Toronto.
