A number of local groups are in line for provincial funding to help the culture and tourism sector recover from the pandemic.

Local MPP Monte McNaughton says over $600,000 is being earmarked for groups across Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, including several in the Chatham-Kent area.

Some of the local recipients:

  • $95,300.00 to the Walpole Island Land Trust
  • 25,900.00 to the Westover Treatment Centre
  • $17,998 to the Walpole Island First Nation Public Library
  • $15,538.00 to the Wallaceburg and District Museum
  • $5,900.00 to Walpole Island First Nation

“Supporting local tourism and culture leads to a better experience for both members of our community and visitors,” McNaughton says.

Ontario’s visitor economy saw unprecedented losses in 2020 alongside business closures and increased unemployment. Tourism‐related industries experienced a total combined loss of 150,000 jobs between February 2020 and May 2021.

The funding comes through a number of sources, including the Community Museum Operating Grants, Public Library Operating Grants, and the Ontario Trillium Foundation.