On Friday, local MPP Andrew Dowie met with the representatives of the Slovak Heritage Foundation of Windsor-Essex County (SHFWEC) to hear more about a $24,600 Capital grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
The grant was used to complete necessary facility upgrades. The enhancements not only provide the amenities that help ensure the continued preservation of cultural heritage through activities like traditional dancing but create a more welcoming place for everyone from the community to engage and enrich their lives through arts, culture and heritage in Windsor-Essex County.
“The Slovak Heritage Foundation works tirelessly to preserve the unique traditions, language, and customs of our Windsor-Essex’s Slovak community for future generations and for the benefit of our region,” said Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor–Tecumseh.
“This support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation is about more than facility upgrades—it’s about strengthening cultural identity, celebrating diversity, and giving people of all ages a place to connect with their heritage.”
The SHFWEC were able to install proper storage cabinets essential for preserving the longevity and condition of museum artifacts and traditional costumes for the Domovina and Rozmarin dance group. Portable dance mirrors were purchased to elevate the dancers training experience.
In addition, an improved performance audio system upgrade and an installation of a camera security system were completed.
And thanks to the Ontario government’s $24,600 grant through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the entire community can enjoy an engaging and immersive experience in a safe environment during a variety of events.
“With this Ontario government grant, we can create an even safer, more dynamic, and inspiring environment for our community,” said Peter Guba, President of the Slovak Heritage Foundation of Windsor-Essex County.
“This grant has allowed needed upgrades to be made. We can focus more on building for tomorrow and developing cultural programs that everyone in our community can enjoy.”
The Slovak Community has been an active part of Windsor and Essex County since the 1920s and contributed to both our region and country in numerous ways.
The foundation looks towards the future with a spirit of unity and progress. It aims to build a dedicated cultural center that will serve as a beacon for our community, a place where anyone can celebrate the heritage, foster connections, and ensure that the legacy of Slovak traditions continues to thrive.
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.
~Images provided courtesy of Jay Zeman