Owen Sound, ON – On Friday, MPP Rick Byers formally congratulated the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce on receiving a $17,300 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) this summer. The OTF grant is helping the YMCA to upgrade the heating system in its aquatics centre. This enhancement work began during the YMCA’s annual shutdown, reflecting its ongoing commitment to providing high-quality facilities with minimal disruption to our members and the community.
“Congratulations to the YMCA for receiving the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for a pool heat exchanger. Thanks for your great service to the community in the wonderful YMCA facility!” said MPP Rick Byers.
The upgrade will feature the installation of an Armstrong 16 Plate Heat Exchanger, a modern and efficient system known for its low installation cost and superior heat transfer capabilities. Its compact design allows for quick and convenient installation, making it well-suited for the YMCA’s current facility’s spatial constraints.
This project will ensure a consistent and comfortable temperature in the leisure pool, which is essential for various activities and programming. By stabilizing the pool’s temperature, the YMCA anticipates increased usage and programming opportunities, as there will be no need for waiting times between sessions. The new heating system will also be more effective and efficient, allowing the pool to reach the correct temperature quickly, particularly after water evacuations and additions.
In addition to enhancing program delivery, the new system will reduce the demand on its holding tanks, leading to significant utility cost savings. This will enable the YMCA to allocate more resources to maintaining and improving our community services. The investment in the new heater is expected to extend the operational life of the community’s largest pool facility by at least 10 years, ensuring long-term accessibility for all members of the community.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the YMCA deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that it remains at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
Replacing the aging heat exchanger will also minimize the risk of unexpected shutdowns, ensuring uninterrupted service and program delivery. By providing a safe and accessible environment for people of all ages and abilities, the new heating system will promote inclusivity and social interaction. The therapeutic benefits of warm leisure pools are particularly significant for individuals with physical disabilities or conditions such as arthritis.
The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is a charity dedicated to building a caring, healthy community by creating opportunities for all people to achieve personal growth in spirit, mind and body. We offer opportunities for personal development in many program areas: Health, Fitness, Aquatics and Recreation, Child Care, Community and Justice Programs, Settlement Services, Housing Support and Employment Services. Learn more on our website: www.ymcaowensound.on.ca
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 more than $110M into 1,044 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.
Photo – Left to right: Brandon Downing, Manager of Health, Fitness and Aquatics, Hugh Wilson, Ontario Trillium Foundation Volunteer, Marilyne Jones, Supervisor of Aquatics, Rick Byers, MPP Bruce Grey Owen Sound, Sarah Cowley, CEO and April McMillan, Manager of Fund Development.
-30-
For Media Inquiries:
Brandon Downing,
Manager of Health, Fitness & Aquatics
YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce
P: 519-376-0484 ext 212| E: brandon.downing@osgb.ymca.ca