Nov 15th, 2024

CCF Project: Good Things are Cooking at Friel Youth House 

In November, Lowertown youth had the chance to unbox some brand-new kitchen appliances and utensils thanks to a $2,000 grant from OCH’s Community Capital Fund (CCF).   

The new equipment will make it easier for the youth to cook meals for their friends and neighbours and enhance their cooking skills. This is another step towards community connection and empowerment that all involved can be proud of.   

It’s the second CCF project completed at the Friel Youth Centre, operated by the Lowertown Community Resource Centre. They have many programs for youth run by qualified staff who offer a safe, welcoming and healthy environment for Lowertown kids. The best part? Every program is free, serves healthy snacks, helps with homework, and runs fun physical activities for the youth after school.    

In 2023, a group of volunteers from one of our trusted partners – Christie Lake Kids, assembled furniture, added a coat of paint and installed flooring – purchased through a CCF grant for $9,000.  

Community Capital Fund projects, driven by tenants and selected by a committee comprising tenant representatives and OCH staff, are a testament to the community’s active role in shaping its future. In 2024, we funded 52 projects for a total of $181,890, all aimed at bringing the community together.   

More than 700 children and youth live in the Lowertown Community – which the Youth Centre serves.   

How do I apply?  

While applications for 2024 are now closed, we encourage you to keep an eye on our website, The Quarterly Tenant Newsletter, and social media for updates on the 2025 application process. To learn more about the process, visit www.och-lco.ca/i-am-a-tenant/community-capital-fund/.