Sunday news turns a watch party into a celebration

Photo by Alex Lien Provided through unsplash

By Cecilia Nasmith

A Blue Jays watch party on Sunday at Port Hope's Jack Burger Sports Complex turned into a big celebration, when baseball fans, young athletes and community members got some exciting news – the municipality has been chosen as a recipient of the 2026 Jays Care Foundation's Field of Dreams grant.

Made possible by TD, the grant funding of $158,200 will support the much-needed refurbishment of the Welcome Park ball diamond.

Mayor Olena Hankivsky said it is an incredible moment, both for Port Hope and for its baseball community.

“This investment from Jays Care Foundation will transform Welcome Park into a more inclusive, accessible space where players of all ages and abilities can participate and thrive,” Hankivsky said in the announcement.

“On behalf of council and the entire community, I want to extend our sincere thanks to J and TD for their generosity, and to our local partners who helped bring this vision forward.”

Improvements that will be made possible by this funding will enhance accessibility, comfort and overall experience, both for local players and visiting teams. This list includes a refurbished infield with an accessible turf surface, new accessible dugouts and refreshed bleachers.

Sunday's exciting announcement included recognition of Port Hope live on national TV as one of this year's Field of Dreams Grant recipients.

The municipality extends special thanks to Port Hope Challenger Baseball for championing this idea and making it a reality, as well as to Northumberland Baseball Association for their support throughout the application process.

Construction at Welcome Park is set to begin later this year, with the field reopening in time for the 2027 baseball season.