Twelve organizations across Sarnia-Lambton have been selected to receive funding through the Community Futures Grant Program to bolster grassroots initiatives and long-term economic resilience.
Community Futures Lambton has announced the recipients of its 2026-2027 Community Futures Grant Program, distributing a total of $40,170 to support a diverse array of projects throughout Lambton County. The program awarded grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to 12 local organizations following a highly competitive selection process.
The demand for local support was evident during this year’s intake, which saw 55 applications requesting nearly $227,000 in combined funding. The selected initiatives cover a broad spectrum of community needs, including youth development, tourism, innovation, and skills training. All funded projects are scheduled to take place between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027.
Sarah Reaume, CEO of Community Futures Lambton, emphasized that the program is specifically designed to support grassroots efforts that strengthen community capacity. Reaume noted that these investments are vital for building long-term economic resilience and expressed pride in partnering with organizations dedicated to doing good work across the county.
This year marks the second year of expanded investment for the organization, which commits to offering a minimum of $25,000 in grant funding annually. By increasing the available pool to over $40,000 this year, the agency aims to remain responsive to the evolving needs of Sarnia-Lambton.
The 2026-2027 grant recipients include:
Western Ontario Steam Threshers Association: $5,000 for the 69th Annual Reunion
Mastermind Youth Foundation: $5,000 for the FoodFutures Youth-Led Food Sovereignty & Innovation Program
County of Lambton: $4,920 for the Circles Volunteer Development Project
Sarnia Lambton Workforce Development Board: $4,000 for the Prosperity Compass project
Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point First Nation: $4,000 for the 55th Annual Pow Wow
Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership Association: $3,750 for the Opportunity in Motion initiative
Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: $3,000 for Summer Employment Transitions
Bluewater Health Foundation (Weir Active): $3,000 for the Weir Active After-School Program
Sarnia Kiwanis Foundation Inc.: $2,500 for the Youth Recreation Program
Plympton-Wyoming Agricultural Society: $2,500 for the Truck and Tractor Pull
IODE Margaret Stokes Chapter (Petrolia): $1,500 for the Hauntings and Historical Tour
Forest-Lambton Museum Society: $1,000 for the Hollyberry Christmas Home Tour
Community Futures Lambton, which operates as the Sarnia-Lambton Business Development Corporation, is supported by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. These grants represent an investment in the local people and institutions that ensure our community continues to flourish.
