$115,200 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government establishes Vanastra Park

Park name unveiled as Basecamp Activity Park

Vanastra, ON: On Thursday, October 16, 2025, MPP Lisa Thompson joined representatives from the Municipality of Huron East at the new park in Vanastra located on Halifax Street as it received its new name. At the event, MPP Thompson formally congratulated the municipality on what’s been done since receiving a $115,200 Capital grant from the Ontario government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The OTF grant, awarded in 2024, is being used to develop the outdoor park with a multi-use sport court, fitness equipment, and a challenging climber, enhancing recreational opportunities for teens and adults in the community.

“Investing in inclusive and active public spaces is key to building strong, connected communities,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce. “I’m proud to see the Ontario Trillium Foundation supporting the development of Vanastra Park, which will offer teens and adults new opportunities to stay active, engage with others, and enjoy the outdoors. This project reflects the spirit of rural Ontario—where collaboration and community pride come together to create lasting impact.”

The project supports the OTF funding priority to foster physically active lifestyles and aims to increase access to a program service by creating a more inclusive and engaging outdoor space.

“This grant allows us to create a vibrant and accessible recreational space that encourages physical activity and community connection,” said Lissa Berard, Director of Community Services for the Municipality of Huron East. “We’re excited to see this park become a hub for wellness and social engagement.”

The Municipality of Huron East is committed to enhancing the quality of life for residents through community-focused initiatives and infrastructure improvements. For more information about upcoming projects and services, visit www.huroneast.com.

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 www.otf.ca to learn more.

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Contact:
Lissa Berard, Director of Community Services
csd@huroneast.com | 519-527-0160 ext. 35

For media inquiries:
Stacey Frayne, Deputy Clerk/Communications Coordinator
communications@huroneast.com | 519-527-0160 ext. 29