Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for DANI Clark Campus’ Newly Expanded Accessible Catering Kitchen

Thornhill, ON – On Wednesday, MPP Laura Smith and Nalin De Silva, an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) volunteer were at the Clark Avenue Campus for DANI (Developing and Nurturing Independence). Last year, DANI received a $96,000 Capital grant from OTF to help it renovate their social-enterprise kitchen to help it continue to meet the growing training/employment needs of the neuro-diverse community.

“For individuals with developmental disabilities, acquiring the skills for independence can be life changing,” said MPP Laura Smith, Thornhill. “Our government is proud to support the important work DANI is doing through this OTF grant. We are building Ontario – an Ontario that is strong, an Ontario that is inclusive.”

The DANI Clark Campus has undergone extensive renovations to create a state-of-the-art kitchen facility that specializes in dairy and vegetarian (parve) food preparation. The expanded kitchen features additional storage space, a walk-in fridge, and modern equipment to cater to the growing demand for kosher meals. This new facility will enable DANI to serve the community better and provide valuable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

In addition to the enhanced catering kitchen, DANI’s Clark Campus now includes a dedicated laundry room designed to teach independent living skills. This room will provide a hands-on learning experience for DANI program participants, fostering their development and preparing them for greater autonomy.

At the event, guests were given a tour of the new kitchen facility and had an opportunity to meet program participants and learn more about DANI’s commitment to fostering independence and providing inclusive opportunities.

DANI (Developing and Nurturing Independence) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in their quest for independence, employment, and community involvement. Through innovative programs and a nurturing environment, DANI aims to empower individuals to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Visit otf.ca to learn more