June 23, 2025 — Royal Botanical Gardens
On Monday, local MPP Natalie Pierre attended the Royal Botanical Gardens’ Annual Volunteer Recognition Event to hear more about the $75,100 capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to install a new universal and accessible washroom at RBG Centre. The project ensures that individuals of all gender identities, expressions, and abilities, along with their caregivers, can experience all that RBG has to offer with comfort and dignity, creating a welcoming and enriching environment for everyone.
“This is great news for visitors to the Royal Botanical Gardens here in Burlington,” said Natalie Pierre, MPP for Burlington. “Through our government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital Grant, this project ensures the RBG is a place for everyone to visit, explore, and enjoy with dignity and comfort. This investment underscores the commitment to building an Ontario where everyone can fully participate for generations to come.”
The OTF grant enabled RBG to transform an existing coatroom into a new, accessible all-gender washroom on the first floor. The washroom features include automatic doors, mobility device navigation space, and an adult change table. This initiative enhances RBG’s facilities, which include the visitor centre, Garden Shop, Greenhouse Café restaurant, Turner Pavilion Tea House, and Hendrie Park, by making them more welcoming and accessible to all.
“We are deeply grateful for the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s grant and the significant opportunities it represents,” said Nancy Rowland, CEO, Royal Botanical Gardens. “This generous funding allows us to implement crucial improvements that will enhance accessibility and inclusivity throughout the gardens, ensuring that everyone in our diverse community can fully experience and enjoy the natural beauty and educational offerings that the Royal Botanical Gardens provide.”
Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the not-for-profit caretaker of 2137 acres of land and ecosystems surrounded by Canada’s largest urban environment. It is an educator and experience creator delivering cultural, artistic, and culinary experiences throughout its diverse network of gardens and natural spaces.
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 $105 million 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.
