- Base Support Funding will be issued to all eligible Agricultural and Horticultural Societies through funding payments of $1,000 as a means of supporting their continued incorporation and activities.
- Hardship Funding for eligible Agricultural Societies will provide additional support which will be based on reported gate revenues from 2019. This will help off-set operating losses, liabilities, and fixed overhead costs related to land and buildings.
Eligible agricultural and horticultural societies can expect to receive funding before March 31, 2022.
“The Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) appreciates OMAFRA’s continued financial support for our over 200 agricultural societies. This new funding shows Minister Thompson’s and OMAFRA’s confidence in our agricultural societies and the impact the societies and their members have on their local communities. During the pandemic, our agricultural societies have continued to creatively promote agriculture and food awareness and engage their communities through in-person and virtual fairs, events and activities” said Vince Brennan, Manager of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies.
“The members of the Ontario Horticultural Association express their gratitude to Minister Thompson and the Ontario government for their continued support during these challenging times,” said Charles Freeman, President of the Ontario Horticultural Association. “This funding will assist the societies and clubs in their ongoing endeavours to serve and beautify their communities.”
Agricultural and Horticultural Societies play a critical role in educating Ontarians on the importance of agriculture and celebrating a rural way of life. Supporting this important sector, at this time, will ensure the long traditions and economic contributions of the societies will continue and strengthen as the province manages the impacts of COVID-19 and moves forward into the future.
Source : Ontario