Raising the roof at the Cobourg YMCA

Photo sumitted.

By Cecilia Nasmith

Thanks to a $186,800 capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, YMCA Northumberland has completed critical roof renovations at its Cobourg facility.

Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini and Mayor Lucas Cleveland joined staff, volunteers, donors and community members Friday to celebrate an important project that will help ensure the facility remains safe, sustainable and accessible.

Originally opened in 1979, the Y has served the community for almost a half-century. The facility welcomes almost 300,000 visits each year for vital programs and services – from swimming lessons and licensed child care to fitness programs, camps and community-outreach initiatives. And across the county, according to the announcement, the Y plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of one in four people.

Y President and Chief Executive Officer Eunice Kirkpatrick described the Y as “a place where people come together to build healthier lives, invaluable connections and a stronger community.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Government of Ontario for their investment of $186,800 in this essential project. Replacing specific areas of the roof protects our facility and ensures we can continue to provide safe, accessible spaces where children, families, older adults and individuals from across our community can belong, grow and thrive.”

“Community organizations like the YMCA play an essential role in helping people of all ages stay active, connected and healthy,” Piccini said.

“Our government is proud to invest in community infrastructure through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, ensuring organizations like YMCA Northumberland have the modern, safe facilities they need to continue delivering vital programs and services for families across our region. This investment will help protect this important community asset for years to come.”