$33,500 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government is in Step with the Toronto Cultural Mingle Association’s Programs
March 18, 2026
Aurora, ON – On Saturday, MPP Dawn Gallagher Murphy met with the team at Toronto Cultural Mingle Association during a community celebration at Aurora Town Square to recognize what’s been happening since they received a $33,500 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The six-month grant, awarded late last year, is supporting the Association’s Intergenerational Dance and Cultural Wellness program that’s helping to promote wellness, reduce social isolation and build community connections across generations.
“Ontario’s investment through the Ontario Trillium Foundation helps local organizations create stronger and more connected communities,” said Dawn Gallagher Murphy, MPP for Newmarket–Aurora. “Toronto Cultural Mingle Association’s intergenerational program is a great example of how community initiatives can bring people together, support seniors’ well-being, and celebrate the diversity that makes our communities vibrant.”
The grant is helping with some of the staffing costs, as well as venue rental and sound system rental costs so that the Association can deliver weekly dance and cultural wellness sessions that encourage seniors and youth to share traditions and learn from one another. The program supports: active living and wellness for seniors; intergenerational cultural exchange; community engagement and social inclusion; and volunteer leadership opportunities for youth, and more than 200 participants from across York Region are expected to take part in the program.
“We are deeply grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for supporting this initiative,” said Gina Chai, Director of Toronto Cultural Mingle Association. “This program creates meaningful opportunities for seniors and youth to connect through dance and cultural traditions. By bringing generations together, we can strengthen community belonging, promote healthy living, and celebrate cultural diversity.”
Toronto Cultural Mingle Association (TCMA) is a community-based non-profit organization in York Region Newmarket/ Aurora dedicated to promoting multicultural exchange, community engagement, and intergenerational connection. Through cultural programs, arts initiatives, and community events, TCMA works to create inclusive spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can connect, share traditions, and build stronger communities. Programs include cultural festivals, senior wellness activities, youth engagement initiatives, and community arts programming across York Region.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. 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 otf.ca to learn more.