Media release
$184,200 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Supports Compassion Society of Halton to Expand Partner Referral Program
A $184,200 Ontario Trillium Foundation Grow grant supports the expansion of Compassion Society of Halton's Referral Partner Program over two years.
$184,200
Ontario Trillium Foundation Grow grant, supporting two years of Referral Partner Program expansion
Burlington, ONOn Thursday, a representative of local MPP Natalie Pierre met with the team at Compassion Society of Halton to hear more about the $184,200 Grow grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant supported the expansion of Compassion Society’s Referral Partner Program over two years. The program provides referrals to essential community resources, directly addressing complex needs like housing, healthcare, and job support for those in need.
“Organizations like Compassion Society of Halton play an essential role in strengthening our community by connecting people with the supports they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future,” said Natalie Pierre, MPP for Burlington. “Through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s investment, the Community Referral Program is helping more residents access vital services, from housing and healthcare to legal and employment supports. I am proud to see this funding making a meaningful difference for individuals and families in Burlington and across Halton.”
3,000+
Halton residents helped to access support services in the past 17 months through the Community Referral Program
As reported in the October 1, 2026 media release
Over the past 17 months, the Community Referral Program has helped more than 3,000 Halton residents to access support services such as medical support, legal assistance, additional food insecurity support, housing assistance and legal aid. The Program’s current partner organizations include 6 support agencies spanning Halton region and with the investment from OTF, Compassion Society hopes to add 1,500 more referrals by the end of the funding term.
“We are extremely grateful to the Ontario government for this important injection of funds to support a program that provides a significant positive impact on members of the Halton community who need a helping hand,” said Rick Bergen, Chair of Compassion Society of Halton’s Board of Directors. “We believe that connecting community members to the support they need during challenging times empowers them to find solutions with dignity and compassion.”
About Compassion Society of Halton
Compassion Society of Halton is a Burlington-based community services organization that has been supporting individuals and families during life’s most challenging moments for more than 25 years. With the help of generous donors and volunteers, the Society works with partners throughout Halton to provide those in need with access to food, clothing and household essentials. We also offer a helping hand through compassionate support services such as access to legal, healthcare, and financial assistance. Our work inspires hope, strengthens resilience, and brings our community together to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
About Ontario Trillium Foundation
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 2025-26, OTF invested nearly $107M into 746 community projects. 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 a more sustainable environment. Visit www.otf.ca to learn more.
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