Community Care Whitby to expand with $2 million from Feds

Durham Region’s Whitby-based Community Care is set to expand into a full wellness centre with $2.3 million from the Federal Government.

The funds come from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, which finances green renovation of eligible businesses and charities across the country. The program is open to applications for up to $3 million until October.

It was initially announced as a $5.5 billion program in 2020 and topped up with another $500 million in 2024. This will extend the program until 2029.

“The program supports the first pillar of the Strengthened Climate Plan by improving the places Canadians live and gather by cutting pollution (e.g. reducing [green house gas] emissions, increasing energy efficiency, building resiliency to climate change and encouraging new builds to net zero standards), making life more affordable and supporting thousands of good jobs,” the feds wrote.

On Aug. 20, Whitby MP Ryan Turnbull and Community Care Durham CEO James Meloche announced the Whitby project on Aug. 20. Described as “A home away from home” for Durham residents, the facility will “support access to health and wellness services delivered by integrated care teams.”

The new headquarters will house;

• adult services
• food security programs
• a new community kitchen
• supports for caregivers and those with mental health needs,
• nursing services and more.

The centre will receive upgrades to the flooring to make it more accessible, new lighting, enhanced acoustics, a living wall, and new windows to increase natural light.

“We are building a Canada that’s fair for everyone which means supporting those in need, regardless of age or ability. Today I’m happy to deliver another federal investment of $2.3 million in our community for the building of a community health and wellness hub in Whitby,” Turnbull said, “This innovative one-stop-shop facility run by Community Care Durham will help more seniors and residents access services that promote health and wellness.”

Community Care itself is also investing just under $1 million in the project from their own funds. The renovations will cut energy consumption by 37.5% and greenhouse gas emissions by 45.5 tonnes annually.