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On Saturday [May 11], local MPP John Jordan joined the staff and volunteers of the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario (RMEO) to celebrate their receipt of $46,900 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) which will be used to enhance accessibility in the Museum.
“This is truly the little Museum that could!”, said MPP John Jordan. “The Railway Museum is renowned throughout Lanark Frontenac Kingston for their engaging displays, historical events and their interactive experiences that bring back an era when trains were the driving engine behind so many facets of society. Thanks to Minister Lumsden’s enthusiastic support, the $46,900 grant will provide new windows of opportunity for visitors of all ages and levels of mobility to access and enjoy the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario!”
RMEO is using this government grant to launch the Railway Heritage Access Initiative at RMEO in Smiths Falls. The new project aims to build resilience and sustainability by researching and developing a comprehensive, detailed plan to adapt and create senior-focused programming and improve overall accessibility.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund,” said Becky Allen, Executive Director of RMEO. “This funding will enable us to further our mission of creating inclusive and engaging experiences for all visitors. With a focus on developing senior- focused programing and enhancing accessibility, we are excited to take meaningful steps towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario.”
RMEO is the number one tourist destination in Smiths Falls. It aims to preserve the region’s railway history and heritage while educating visitors about the significance of railways in shaping the area’s development. History comes to life at RMEO which is housed in the former 1912 Canadian Northern Railway Station. The museum features a fully-restored and operational telegraph office, 1899 era Dining Car, Nolans Flag Station, Dental Car, engines, coaches, boxcars, cabooses and more. The museum offers tours, interactive displays, educational programming, special events, 3 different cabooses used for Airbnbs and a charming gift shop.
“Non-profit organizations across Ontario deliver programming that makes a difference,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “That’s why funding that my ministry is providing through the OTF is so important. Our government wants to ensure that these programs and spaces remain the heart of communities across our province.”
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 more than $110M into 1,044 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.
