Caledon Meals on Wheels Supports Intergenerational Connection, Community Storytelling, and Strategic Planning Thanks to $90,800 OTF Grant from Ontario Government

March 12, 2026

CALEDON – On Thursday, the team at Caledon Meals on Wheels (CMOW) celebrated the completion of a 12-month initiative, which was supported by a $90,800 Seed grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).

“This Ontario Trillium Foundation investment is helping Caledon Meals on Wheels strengthen the connections that help make our community so special,” said Sylvia Jones, MPP for Dufferin-Caledon. “By supporting intergenerational programming, community storytelling and long-term strategic planning, this grant is helping ensure seniors feel supported, youth feel engaged and the organization can continue delivering meaningful services for years to come”.

Over the course of the grant, CMOW used the funding to strengthen community connection and build organizational capacity. The project supported the launch of an intergenerational pilot designed to reduce social isolation by creating opportunities for youth and seniors to build meaningful friendships. Funding also supported CMOW’s new podcast, Aging Out Loud Caledon, to help bring older adults’ stories and experiences to the community. Finally, the grant supported the development of CMOW’s strategic plan through research and stakeholder engagement, helping guide CMOW’s next steps. Aging Out Loud Caledon will be available for listening on the agency’s website at www.cmow.org or on Spotify beginning mid-March.

Finally, as part of the grant, CMOW hired a Youth Volunteer Coordinator to support volunteer recruitment, training, and community outreach connected to this work.

“This funding helped us invest in connection, not just services,” said Kim Rodrigues, Executive Director of Caledon Meals on Wheels. “It gave us the chance to bring youth and seniors together, elevate seniors’ voices through Aging Out Loud Caledon, and complete the strategic planning work we needed to keep building for the future.”

Caledon Meals on Wheels is a volunteer and community-driven non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors and vulnerable individuals in the Caledon, Orangeville and surrounding communities. With a mission to provide more than just meals, Caledon Meals on Wheels delivers nourishment, companionship, and a sense of well-being to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those recovering from illness. Their team of dedicated volunteers and staff work tirelessly to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry, recognizing the importance of not only meeting nutritional needs but also fostering a sense of connection and support. To learn more about Caledon Meals on Wheels and its services, visit www.cmow.org.

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.

Contact Information:

Kim Rodrigues, Executive Director

Caledon Meals on Wheels

(905) 857-7651

Kim.rodrigues@cmow.org